Warning over rat scam

Published on 21/03/2013 12:03

Conmen posing as pest controllers are targeting elderly people in Derry’s Creggan estate, a local councillor has warned.

SDLP councillor Jim Clifford said two men this week called at the home of elderly residents in Iniscarn Road claiming that they were there regarding a report of rats in the area.

Cllr Clifford said: “It is disgraceful that anyone would attempt to carry out an act like this and target the most vulnerable people in our community.

“The two men did not produce any form of ID and fortunately the elderly residents did not allow them to enter their home.

“I am asking people to be extra vigilant – as this call was probably a scam to enter their home in an attempt to steal from them. People should ask anyone claiming to be carrying out such work for ID. Indeed, a genuine caller from the Council won’t mind.”

The two men have been described as being in their late 20s or early 30s with local accents and both were wearing bennie hats and blue jackets. The police have been contacted about the incident. Derry City Council has also confirmed that no such work was being carried out at the time.

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Warning over rat scam

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