Public urged to be wary of 'tarmac scam' conmen targeting the elderly in Donegal
An Garda Síochána say they have recently received reports in relation to bogus callers in the Convoy, Raphoe and Letterkenny areas
The public has been warned about a “tarmac scam” which is targeting the elderly and is becoming more evident in Donegal.
An Garda Síochána say they have recently received reports in relation to bogus callers in the Convoy, Raphoe and Letterkenny areas.
“A man or men typically go door-to-door, claiming to be a builders/builders working on a contract who have some leftover tarmac and offering to conduct work on a driveway or the surroundings of a building at a low cost,” a Garda spokesperson said.
“The material then used is often gravel chippings covered with engine oil or not the right depth and type of materials to form a lasting road surface.
“These conmen may target elderly, vulnerable residents or businesses and claim to be official contractors working on roadworks to add credibility. They often increase the cost during the course of the work, claiming that the job has required more material than expected, and they may then start issuing threats.
“Please be vigilant and inform Gardaí immediately should you have callers at your home or business who are offering to lay tarmac.
“Do not open your door to anybody unless you are sure who they are. Use a chain lock for extra security. Do not agree to have work carried out by these types of callers and do not provide them with your personal details.
“Should you come across these callers, please contact us immediately in Letterkenny on 074-9167100, Buncrana on 074-9320540, Milford on 074-9153060 or Ballyshannon on 071-9858530. If possible take note of their direction of travel, their description and registration numbers. Should you capture them on CCTV, doorbell camera or dash cam, please make the footage available to Gardaí. Please advise elderly/vulnerable family members and friends in relation to these type of callers and in relation to this type of scam.”