Residents in Newtown have been warned to be on the look out for rogue traders operating in the area.
Police are urging people in Newtown and the surrounding area to be vigilant following reports of unsolicited people knocking doors and offering to clean driveways, repair paths or carry out other jobs.
Rogue traders are criminals who take advantage of householders by using high-pressure sales techniques. The work is often expensive, sub-standard and not required at all.
DS Stephen Vaughan said: “To many people, cold callers can seem like legitimate workmen and traders, but we know they can pressure or trick people into handing over their money – sometimes in very large amounts.
“Our advice is to always be on guard when answering the door to an unknown caller, and think twice about paying for goods or services on your doorstep.
“It is not illegal for traders to sell at the door and legitimate callers will not mind if you shut and lock the door while you verify that they are genuine.
“Rogue traders often offer gardening work or maintenance services at attractive rates but the quality of work is substandard, unnecessary or overpriced. They often use persuasive sales techniques to encourage people into making hasty decisions. If in doubt, call the police or trading standards for advice.”
Anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of any distraction burglar or rogue trader should ring 101, 999 in an emergency, or give information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. If you are concerned about unwanted callers in general please contact your neighbourhood policing team for advice.
