Gardaí have issued a warning after an elderly lady was pressurised into paying for 12 chainsaws, 11 generators, seven power washer and assorted tools which she had no use for.
Two men have appeared in court in relation to the bogus house call after they turned up uninvited at the lady's home in West Cork. Gardaí say that she was pressurised into paying an extortionate price for the aforementioned items and have warned others to be mindful of such bogus callers.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Gardaí said: 'If you have elderly or vulnerable neighbours and see or hear about bogus traders doing the rounds, let them and ourselves know so we can put out additional patrols. If you suspect that anyone who calls to your door selling goods or services is not who they say they are, tell them you are not interested and call the Gardaí immediately. Genuine tradespeople won’t be offended by any queries the Gardaí may make.'
They added that 'if you are answering the door to ‘cold callers’, apply the chain or door limiter before opening the door. I would also ask that If anyone feels like they, or someone they know has been a victim of being sold goods for extortionate prices, or paid for a service that was not carried out, to call any Garda station and report the matter.'
Gardaí say that 'our Community Policing units are always on hand to pay regular visits to anyone who might feel susceptible to any type of crime. We regularly host outings and pay visits to senior citizen’s groups and clubs so the people get to know their local Community Policing Unit and build up a relationship with them.'
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