LAYING We must all observe lockdown

WITH DIVISIONAL COMMANDER CHIEF SUPERINTENDENT ALAN MURRAY

It is of course clear that the coronavirus crisis remains uppermost in most people’s minds at present and that is no different for my officers as they go about their daily business of keeping people safe.

Although there continues to be ‘pockets’ of noncompliance with the lockdown regulations in Renfrewshire, particularly around parks and Paisley town centre, the vast majority of local residents continue to follow the government advice and behave responsibly.

My officers are only too aware that their duties can put them at some additional risk, so your support and the gestures of kindness they have received - and there have been many - are much appreciated.

It disheartens me to have to report that yet again a number of elderly residents have been left traumatised after their homes were targeted by a sneak-in thief.

I would ask that everyone helps to ensure the safety of vulnerable residents by reporting any suspicious behaviour in their neighbourhood.

Also, if you have elderly friends, relatives or neighbours please remind them of the need to lock their doors at all times.

On a similar note, I have written to all care homes in the area to offer the support of Police Scotland in what must be a very challenging, and in some cases upsetting, time for both residents and staff.

I apologise if we have missed any care homes, but whether or not you have received a letter please contact me at Paisley Police Office if there is anything you think we can do to make life easier for you.

We appreciate the great job you do and I am glad you are now getting the recognition you so richly deserve.

There is no doubt that the loneliness some people are experiencing because of the coronavirus lockdown has made them more vulnerable to certain types of fraud and extortion.

In recent days we have received reports of incidents where the fraudster lures the victim into believing that they are looking for a genuine romantic relationship.

Once the online relationship is established the fraudster encourages the victim to send personal photographs or engage in intimate actions via social media.

This is followed by an attempt to blackmail the victim for large sums of money by threatening to circulate the personal material.

In the majority of cases we have found that the suspects are generally based outwith the UK and are communicating via false social media accounts.

It is imperative that people are aware of this type of crime and remain vigilant to unsolicited communication via social media platforms.

If you believe that you are being targeted in such a way then please do not send money, and contact Police Scotland where relevant help and advice can be provided.

NTS TIE PA 19 D- VI O C D N A S E O R E H S N P EL

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