Police issue bogus workmen warning

Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses and issuing a warning to the public following a number of reports of bogus workmen in the West of the City.

Between 11am and 2pm on Wednesday 5th November, four men approached various households in the Craiglockhart Loan, Redford Loan, Bonaly Avenue and Longstone Road and claimed the properties’ roofs required repair.

The suspects then attempted to pressurise the occupants to withdraw cash for the roofing work to be carried out. However, no money was obtained from any of the addresses.

It is believed the males were travelling in two vehicles – a white van and a Citroen C5. Both had ladders on the roof.

Officers are now urging other residents to be vigilant for these men or other individuals looking who may be cold calling in the city.

The first suspect is described as white, in his thirties, 5ft 11ins tall with a medium build, short fair hair and facial stubble. He was wearing a blue hooded top, green body warmer, blue jeans and black boots.

The second suspect is described as white, in his thirties, 5ft 10ins tall with a stocky build, short fair hair and facial stubble. He was wearing a black jacket, grey jumper with black hoops, blue jeans and black trainers.

The third suspect is described as white, in his thirties 5ft 10ins tall, sandy-coloured hair, facial stubble and wearing a green body warmer and blue jeans.

The final suspect is described only as being white in his thirties with dark features and wearing blue clothes.

Detective Constable Jim Philp said: “All of the homeowners who were targeted by these men were elderly. However, thankfully none of them were defrauded of any money.

“We want other members of the public to be wary of this sort of activity in their area and never allow unsolicited callers carry out any works on their properties and never hand over any cash to these individuals.

“In addition, communities are asked to assist elderly and vulnerable neighbours, friends or family members by reporting any suspicious activity or people to police.

“We also have a range of crime prevention advice available to help the public safeguard their homes against criminals, which can be obtained by visiting our website at www.scotland.police.uk or by speaking with your local policing team.”