Three men were arrested in the Patchway area yesterday afternoon, Wednesday 8th January, in a police operation involving the police helicopter, plain clothed and uniformed officers.
The operation came after an elderly couple reported handing over a substantial amount of cash to a number of men. The couple had previously had unsatisfactory work carried out on their home and had been contacted by men claiming to be from Trading Standards, investigating this as rogue trading.
Two men remain in police custody today, while a third has been released on police bail pending further enquiries.
South Gloucestershire DI Jill Kells said:
“Our investigations into this fraud continue and I would ask anyone who has any information which could help our enquiries to get in touch by calling us on 101 with the reference 2275/14.”
“I must stress that the police, Trading Standards or the courts would never ask a victim to hand over cash in any circumstances.”
“If you have an unexpected caller, use the door chain and ask for identification before opening the door. Officers from the police or Trading Standards will always show you identification. If you are at all unsure about a caller, shut the door and ring 101 immediately.”
You can also make contact through the police website at: www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/contact.
Alternatively ring the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. They never ask your name or trace your call.
Update from Avon and Somerset Police:
“Two men from Cardiff are due before North Avon Magistrates today, Friday January 10 2014, charged with conspiracy to defraud an elderly couple.”
“The charges follow a police operation in Patchway on Wednesday January 8 2014.”
“A third man remains on police bail pending further enquiries.”
Good to hear a story where callous people like this are caught and charged.