ON THE BEAT BE AWARE OF SCAMS THAT FRAUDSTERS CARRY OUT

With Constable Andrewporteous

We at Police Scotland again wish you all the best and hope that you have enjoyed 2024 and what it has brought so far.

Our officers continue to support the terrific work being done by the Hamilton Our Town team and in particular look forward to the events they have arranged for the rest of 2024.

We hope these events have the desired effect and help to keep regenerating the town centre. The local town centre Officers continue to assist them with the Pub Watch scheme and their continued attendance at these events.

One such event will be the Hamilton Market in the Regent Centre from 9am to 5pm on Saturday, May 4.

This week, I would like to give some advice for victims of fraud.

■ If your bank or credit card accounts have been compromised contact your bank and tell them you suspect you have been the victim of fraud.

■ If you receive correspondence from companies about applications or accounts that you do not recognise, contact the relevant companies immediately and advise them.

■ Report the fraud to Police Scotland on 101.

■ Keep a note of any telephone numbers, emails or other correspondence you have had from the fraudster.

■ Consider contacting a credit reference agency to review your credit report. If you notice unauthorised activity contact the organisations involved, as soon as possible.

■ If you have been the victim of fraud be aware your details may be sold on to other fraudsters who might make contact with you in an attempt to make you part with more money.

■ This is most common in the case of the victims of share scams. Fraudsters often call up the victim of such scams advising they can get the victims money back for a fee.

Meanwhile, police received reports this weekend of a male challenging people to a fight in Hamilton town centre.

It involved an intoxicated male allegedly in the possession of an offensive weapon.

On the police attending a male was traced a short distance away and arrested in relation to a breach of the peace and for allegedly being in the possession of an offensive weapon.

This male was then held custody to appear at Hamilton Sheriff Court on the next lawful day.

There has also been an upturn in youth disorder in the town centre area, including fireraisings to bins belonging to local stores and businesses. If you see any groups of youths causing any issues, disturbances, underage drinking etc then please contact 101 or 999.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously with information about crime on 0800 555 111.

For any additional advice please visit www.scotland.police.uk