Police seek information after bogus workmen target Glenrothes residents

Police are appealing for information after two people were conned out of thousands of pounds to bogus workmen in the Whinnyknowe area of Glenrothes.

On Monday 17 January, four men went to a property in the town's Greenwell Park.

Officers say that the men told the 65-year-old occupier that he needed a small gutter repair which they did for free.

They then falsely claimed there was a large hole in the roof which needed to be repaired immediately.

He handed over a four figure sum of money for work that didn't need to be done.

In a second incident, the men went to a different property on the same road on Saturday 22 January.

They advised the 74-year-old occupier that work needed to be done to the property.

Money was taken for unnecessary work and she had been charged significant sums for minor maintenance such as path cleaning.

One of the men is described as white, aged mid-30s, about 5 foot 6 inches in height, with short curly brown hair, was wearing dark "tradesman" style clothing and spoke with a slight Irish accent.

The group had been seen to be using a large dark-coloured estate type car.

Police Scotland is keen to speak to anyone who might have seen these men and who can help with its investigation.

Sergeant Peter Wordie from Glenrothes Police Station said: "This is an appalling crime that targeted some of the most vulnerable people in our community.

"We are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen these men and can help with our investigation.

"If you were driving in the area recently and have dash-cam footage that might help please get in touch.

"We would also like to hear from people with private CCTV or door bell-footage that might assist our investigation.

"These criminals are often extremely plausible and we are asking people in the community to be on their guard and be aware of bogus workmen in the area.

"I would advise the local community to be vigilant when approached by anyone offering this kind of work. Always ask for credentials and never hand over money upfront. If you are not sure about the price they are charging consider getting a second opinion.

"We are carrying out extra patrols in this area. If you think anyone is being targeted by bogus workmen or have any concerns please contact us or speak to an officer direct."

Anyone who can assist with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 2141, of Tuesday, 25 January, 2022, or make a call to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 anonymously.