Police launch campaign to tackle doorstep crime

Police Scotland has renewed it commitment to tackling doorstep crime and bogus callers. Entitled Operation Monarda, the campaign drives home the message: “If In Doubt, Keep Them Out”.

According to police, if someone arrives to your home unexpectedly:

• ensure your windows and doors are secure.
• make use of door chains and bars.
• don’t allow anyone entry to your home unless you have verified their identity by telephone.

Operation Monarda brings together public, private and third sector organisations to help minimise risk and prevent harm to vulnerable and older people from criminals who commit doorstep crime.

It operates as a preventative project, and encompasses engagement work with the general public, as well as enforcement work to target criminals.

Victims of bogus callers and doorstep crime are often unaware the crime has been committed, feel so embarrassed they feel unable to go to the police, as well as fearing a loss of independence, and facing financial uncertainty in the future.

Doorstep crime occurs across Scotland, in every policing division, with more than 1000 incidents and 262 bogus caller crimes recorded between 1 February 2015 and 31 July 2015. Approximately £238,300 was taken from victims during this time – which is around £100,000 lower than during the previous reporting period.

The Highland and Islands Division launch was headed by Detective Superintendent Colin Carey, who said: “Bogus callers and associated doorstep crime is a vastly under-reported crime so we hope the campaign will encourage members of the public to report incidents.

“Throughout the campaign we will be raising awareness within communities of this despicable crime and offering simple but effective advice to the public on how to avoid being targeted.

“Doorstep crime can affect anyone but we know that the elderly can be particularly vulnerable. Bogus callers and rogue traders can be extremely convincing in their methods in securing the confidence of potential victims. Sadly, many people are convinced by their lies; with potentially devastating affects for individuals and families, financial and otherwise.

“Even if you do not feel you are likely to fall victim to this type of crime, it is very important to pass on advice to friends, neighbours or family members who may possibly be targeted and provide them with the information and confidence to say no.”

“We don’t recommend dealing with cold-callers for any form of property maintenance or repairs to your home or garden, so if you have any doubts, do not let them into your house. Householders are advised to seek a number of quotes from reputable companies when planning to have work carried out; professional firms will be happy to provide description of the work they plan to carry out and what the price entails. Genuine traders will appreciate the need for a cooling off period.”

He added: “If you have any concerns relating to suspicious activity taking place at the home of a neighbour, friend or family member, please contact Police Scotland or Trading Standards immediately.”