Bogus caller incident in Prestwick

Police in Ayrshire are warning people to be extra careful following a bogus caller incident in Prestwick on Wednesday, 16 March, 2022.

Around 4pm, two men attended at the house of a 66-year-old woman in Lichtenfels Gardens, Prestwick. They told her they were from Scottish Water. One man engaged the lady in conversation while the other man snuck in, attempting to steal from her. The lady had her suspicions and challenged the men. They left the property empty handed.

One man has a heavy build, thick black curly hair, with facial hair and a generally scruffy appearance. He was wearing jeans and a yellow, high-vis vest over a t-shirt.

There is limited detail on the second man.  He was slim and wearing dark coloured clothing. They were driving a white transit van which had no signage on it.

Officers are carrying out further enquiries to try and identify the two men.

Chief Inspector Kevin Lammie, area commander for South Ayrshire said: "This type of crime is a priority for South Ayrshire police and working with partners, we will continue to target rogue traders and bogus callers who target often the most vulnerable in our communities.

"I would encourage people to look out for family members, report any suspicious activity and share key prevention messages which include not to engage with any uninvited callers at the door or those who attempt to scam callers over the phone.

"I would urge anyone with concerns about crime in their community to contact their local policing team."

Police Scotland can be contacted on 101 (in an emergency always dial 999). Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.