Warning over bogus workmen knocking doors in Wolverhampton
Concerns have been raised by a Wolverhampton councillor about bogus workmen coming to people’s houses in an affluent part of the city and offering to do gardening, fencing and guttering work before stealing money.
Distraction burglars dressed as utility officials have struck on a number of occasions in the Tettenhall area, prompting an urgent warning to residents from Councillor Jane Stevenson and also West Midlands Police.
Councillor Stevenson said: “This a question of people using common sense if they are approached at their home out of the blue by someone claiming to be a workman and offering to do jobs.
“If opportunist thieves are at work in the area then people need to exercise extreme caution and always ask to see a correct, legitimate form of identification.
“No genuine company representative would refuse to show this. Also, I would always urge homeowners to check the firm’s credentials, either by telephone or on google.”
A spokesman for West Midlands Police added: “This type of criminal activity has been going on for years, so we are always warning people that they can’t be too careful or take any chances.
“A number of residences in the area have been targeted by distraction burglars, mainly taking or asking for money. The offenders have been enquiring about doing manual or labouring work, such as house repairs.
“I would urge people – please don’t have work done by anyone who just comes to your home. We are asking our communities to be vigilant at this time, look out for friends, families, neighbours and particularly the elderly or vulnerable and people who live alone.
“If you see any suspicious behaviour or are aware of criminal activity in the area then please report it straight away.
“This sort of behaviour is a real ordeal for the victims, and we are investigating several incidents. These bogus workmen will often dress as officials and try to pass themselves of as water, electricity or gas representatives – or even as police officers – to try and gain someone’s trust and get entry to their home,” he said.
“If you don’t know the caller, ask to see their identity card. Genuine callers won’t mind and will be obligated to help you. Some public utility services operate a password system, so people can always contact their local branch to find out more.
“If anyone is still not sure, they should ask the caller to come back later and then check their story by phoning the organisation or company they claim to represent. The number will be in the telephone directory.
“Don’t rely on any telephone numbers on their card as this may be the number of a criminal’s partner. Please everyone, be vigilant and help protect your communities.”
