Police warning after man drives 80-year-old woman to bank for ‘overpriced’ gutter work

Police in South Wales have issued a warning to the public following reports of rogue traders targeting vulnerable members of the community. The caution comes after an 80-year-old woman in Neath was coerced into paying for exorbitantly priced gutter work and was even driven to the bank to withdraw the cash.

According to South Wales Police, there have been instances of “small groups of rogue traders” engaging in deceptive tactics to manipulate individuals into purchasing unnecessary or overpriced services. These unscrupulous traders have been known to accompany victims to banks to ensure payment. Fraudulent activities may involve substandard or unnecessary home improvements, with traders sometimes causing damage to lure homeowners into availing of their services at a hefty charge.

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In a recent incident on Thursday, October 24, a 53-year-old man from South Gloucestershire was apprehended on suspicion of fraud and burglary after reportedly carrying out overpriced guttering work for the elderly woman in Neath and then escorting her to the bank to settle the bill. The man has since been released under investigation pending further inquiries.

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Police advise residents to exercise caution when approached by door-to-door traders offering services such as guttering, gardening, or tree cutting. They stress the importance of verifying a trader’s credentials, including a permanent business address and landline telephone number, to avoid falling victim to scams. Individuals are also warned against accompanying strangers to financial institutions for payment, as this can pose significant risks.

Furthermore, South Wales Police emphasise the significance of safeguarding one’s home and personal belongings from potential burglars who may pose as traders. They caution against divulging information about valuables or security measures to avoid becoming targets for theft or fraudulent activities. Victims of similar crimes are encouraged to report incidents to Action Fraud or seek assistance from Citizens Advice and National Trading Standards if they suspect foul play.

To protect themselves from falling prey to rogue traders, residents are urged to remain vigilant and cautious when engaging with unfamiliar individuals offering services. By verifying credentials, avoiding advance payments, and refraining from providing personal information to unknown parties, individuals can reduce their vulnerability to fraudulent schemes and safeguard their financial well-being.

In light of these recent incidents, it is essential for the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities promptly. By staying informed and taking proactive measures to verify the legitimacy of traders, residents can help prevent future scams and protect themselves from financial exploitation.