| Police are not ruling out a link between the two incidents, which happened within 15 minutes of each other in Craigiebank and Charleston.
A man duped both women, who are in their 80s, by claiming to be visiting regarding the water supply.
The first incident happened at 4pm yesterday at an 88-year-old’s home in Greendykes Road, Craigiebank.
The woman let the man in, and led him through to the kitchen, where he turned the taps on and off.
As he was leaving she became aware of three other men leaving her house.
She subsequently discovered the money missing.
The man is described as in his early 20s, 5ft 7’, medium build and having an English accent. He was wearing blue clothing, possibly a suit.
The police have no descriptions for the other three.
In the second incident, an 85-year-old answered the door to a man at her home in Dunholm Road, Charleston at 4.15pm.
Again, the man entered the kitchen, where he remained for around 10 minutes before leaving.
The woman then discovered missing money.
The caller is described as in his 20s, 5ft 9’, medium build and wearing a navy suit. He had short, dark, wavy hair and was clean shaven.
He was seen at the address with another man, described as in his 20s, 5ft 9’, stocky, with short, brown hair and wearing a three quarter length brown jacket.
The two were then seen joining another man, and all three got into an M-registered dark blue saloon car.
A spokesperson for Tayside Police said, “We urge people to be vigilant when someone arrives unannounced.
“Generally people will always ensure their home is secure when they’re out, but they should also be security conscious when at home.
“Keep doors closed to prevent people from simply walking in.
“Householders, whatever their age, should be suspicious of everyone calling door when they don’t know the person and they have no appointment.
“If the door is fitted with a chain, use it.
“Bogus callers can be plausible.
“Their aim is to gain access to your home under false pretences.
“That is why it’s important to demand to see some form of identification.
“A bona fide tradesperson or company representative will not be offended by your suspicions, and will be happy to provide identification.
“If you are not satisfied they’re who they say they are, close the door and check with the company they claim to represent.
“Even then, if you are not entirely happy, shut the door and contact the police.”
Anyone with information regarding bogus callers should contact police on 01382 223200, or speak to any officer. |
