Beware of bogus callers
Older and vulnerable members of the community are being urged to be mindful of bogus callers following an incident at a home in Swinton. Two men cleaned out the gutter at a home on Arthur Street on 24 August without being asked and demanded money from the owner. They left empty handed when a member of the public approached them. Now police are encouraging members of the community to keep out bogus callers and report suspicious activity. Fiona James, crime reduction advisor for Salford Division, said: “This type of despicable crime is often targeted at older and vulnerable residents because they are seen as easy pickings. This time, no money was taken but there have been numerous occasions where people have been conned out of hundreds of pounds. “My advice is to keep doors and windows locked, before opening the door, stop and ask yourself are you expecting anyone. Make sure the door chain is on and check the caller’s identity. A genuine caller will not mind while you contact their company. If you are in doubt, do not open the door. Never hand over money to anyone who you have not previously arranged to do work on your property. Fiona added: “I also encourage residents to sign up to the Nominated Neighbour scheme and for the over 60’s, free home security help is available through Help The Aged’s HandyVan initiative.” To report crime call police on 0161 872 5050 or for more information visit www.gmp.police.uk. You can also call anonymously with information about crime to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Crimestoppers is an independent charity who will not want your name, just your information. Your call will not be traced or recorded and you do not have to go to court or give a statement. To contact Salford North Neighbourhood Policing Team, phone 0161 856 5228 or email salfordnorth.neighbourhood@gmp.police.uk Source: GMP. Due to problems with spam only SalfordOnline members can now leave comments. Becoming a member of SalfordOnline only takes a minute, just hit the red Join Us button at the top right hand side of the page to create your Personal account. Got a news story? Need help with publicity for an event in Salford? Send it to newsdesk@salfordonline.com or call the SalfordOnline newsdesk on 0161 789 5377. |