Police investigate after reports that Sevenoaks pensioners have been targeted by rogue traders

SEVENOAKS residents have been reminded to be on their guard against suspected rogue traders after two incidents where pensioners have reportedly paid cash for building work or repairs after being approached on their doorstep this week.

On Monday 1 April, police patrols were called to a bank in Sevenoaks High Street after a pensioner attempted to withdraw a large quantity of cash for building work at his house.

The pensioner, who is in his 70s, had previously taken money from his account after being unexpectedly approached by a man who said his roof need repairing. More withdrawals had been made for further work identified by the same man.

On the same day, police officers were also called after a man visited a house near Dartford Road, Sevenoaks, and said he was a volunteer gardener.

He told the occupant, who is in her 80s, he needed to borrow some money to buy paint and would pay her back later that day. The pensioner lent him some money and the man left the premises but failed to return.

He is described as white, in his early 50s, 5ft 10in tall, of slim build and wearing grey trousers and a white shirt

District Commander, Chief Inspector Nick Finnis said: “While my officers are investigating these incidents, I strongly urge householders to be careful about who they let into their homes.

“Please don’t allow anyone you don’t know or were not expecting to enter your property and certainly do not hand them cash or your bank card, or allow yourself to be taken to a bank or building society to withdraw money for services or repairs.

“Don’t be afraid to ask them for identification and if you have any doubts about a caller at your door, ask them to leave and come back at a time when you can have a friend or relative with you.

“I am also asking residents to be alert for suspected rogue traders calling on elderly or vulnerable neighbours.”

Can you help?

Anyone with information that may help the investigations is asked to contact the Kent Police on 01622 604100 quoting crime reference 46/61538/19.
You can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers in Kent anonymously on 0800 555111.