Investigation underway after bogus workmen activity

Police are appealing for witnesses following two bogus
workmen incidents in the Whitburn area.

The first incident happened around 2.45pm on Tuesday 29
October, 2019, at an address on Park Lane.

A man posing as a water engineer entered the property,
claiming he was there to turn off the water supply following a burst main.

While in the property, the man assaulted an 88-year-old man
and 79-year-old woman. He stole a three figure sum of cash before running out
the house in the direction of Brucefield Drive, Whitburn.

The second incident happened around 9am on Wednesday 30th
October, 2019, at an address on Ellen Street.

Again, a man entered the property claiming to be a water
engineer and began searching the property, subsequently stealing a four figure
sum of cash. He then left in the direction of Whitburn Academy.

On both occasions, the man is described as white, in his
50’s, between 5ft 5in and 5ft 8in tall, of a medium build, auburn hair and
unshaven beard, with a foreign or Irish accent and wearing dark clothing.
During the second incident the man may have been wearing a white woolly hat.

Deputy Local Area Commander for West Lothian, Myles Marshall
said: “These incidents are of great concern as elderly members of the community
have been targeted. They have been left shaken with minor injuries and these
incidents are thought to be linked.

“We are appealing for anyone who may have been in either
area at the time or who has any information matching the description of the man
to please get in contact.

“If you have any CCTV or dashcam footage that may assist us
with our investigation, or have experienced a suspicious caller to your
property then please contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident number
1957 of 29 October 2019.

“I would like to take this opportunity to emphasise to
members of the public to be vigilant if an unknown caller appears at your
property claiming they are looking to carry out work or repairs.

“Please only trust trades people that you are expecting and
always check their identities first. If you have any concerns, please contact
police.”

Deputy Local Area Commander for West Lothian, Myles Marshall
is available for interviews.