Vulnerable man target of scam

Two men have been arrested as part of an investigation into rogue traders targeting vulnerable people in Maidstone.

It comes after a man with learning difficulties was conned out of thousands of pounds. Two men are said to have knocked on the victim’s door, near the A20 London Road, in September, offering to jet wash his driveway for cash. He agreed and paid the money upfront, but soon after one of the men returned, demanding more.

He claimed they had discovered subsidence and the victim paid another £3,000. Still not satisfied, they returned again to say the problem was bigger than expected. Bank staff raised the alarm to police when the victim attempted to withdraw more cash.

When officers attended the men were no longer there and the driveway was left in a state of disrepair.

In October the victim was targeted again by two men offering to fix the driveway for a large sum. The pair left after being challenged by a friend of the vulnerable man.

This week police arrested a 29-year-old from Knockholt and a 38-year-old from Headcorn on suspicion of fraud. They were bailed until December 15 and 16, respectively.

Police advise people not to deal with cold callers offering work on homes or gardens.

Anyone with information which could help the investigation should call 01622 604100, quoting 46/SI/YY/5570/18.