Donegal Gardaí issue warning over conmen and their 'Tarmac Scam'

Donegal Gardaí have warned against what they are calling the ‘Tarmac Scam’.

This entails conman typically goes door-to-door, claiming to be a builder working on a contract who has some leftover tarmac, and offering to conduct work on a driveway at a low cost.

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. The conmen may target elderly, vulnerable residents 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 to issue threats.

“Please be vigilant and inform Gardaí if you have callers at your home or business who are offering to lay tarmac,” An Garda Siochana said. “We have had numerous calls in relation to men who have recently been calling door to door in an orange coloured lorry and a silver Landcruiser at various locations in Donegal.

“The last place they were observed today was in Churchill. Do not open your door to anybody unless you are sure of 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 men call 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 & friends in relation to these type of callers and in relation to this type of scam.”