Bogus workmen operating in Carluke area

A vulnerable 91-year-old man was victim to a couple of fraudsters who made off with his cash after pretending to carry out work at his house.

The horrific incident, which took place at 12.30pm last Wednesday, saw two men appear at the victim’s home offering to carry out repair work at his home.

After agreeing to the work, the man paid a four-figure sum of money to the men, who later made off, without carrying out any of the repairs.

The first man is described as white, aged between 50 and 59 years, around 6ft tall with a heavy build. He spoke with a Scottish accent.

The second male is described as white, around 5 ft 8 and with a slim build.

It is believed that they may have used a small white van after tricking the OAP at his home in Lanark Road, Carluke.

Detective Inspector Kevin Jamieson said:“These people are the scourge of society who prey on the elderly or vulnerable for their own gains.

“My officers are currently reviewing CCTV footage and carrying out door to door inquiries to glean any information about these two men who are responsible for this despicable crime.

“I am appealing to anyone who may have seen two men matching these

“I understand that victims find it difficult to come forward but these people are very expert‘conmen’who can appear to be genuine tradespeople as they can talk in detail about repairs required to properties.

“I must urge people to be on their guard when answering the door to people purporting to be genuine workmen. To prey on vulnerable people and defraud them of significant sums of money is appalling and I will do everything to find those men responsible.”

If you have any information on this incident then contact the police as soon as possible on 101 or alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.