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Beware of bogus callers
As you may have heard, or seen on television, there
was a recent and serious crime committed on the outskirts of this area.
An elderly couple were bound and gagged and left in their house for a
number of days before the alarm was raised.
Lothian and Borders Police are now making enquiries
into this crime and seek assistance from you. If you have had any
suspicious callers to your door recently or have been the subject of a
theft which you have not previously reported to the Police, we would ask
that you contact St Leonard's Police Station on 662 5000.
If you have any information relating to the serious
crime, which was committed in early November, you should also contact St
Leonard's.
The Police do not wish to alarm you further, rather
make you aware that a problem exists and to let you know there are steps
you can take to help deter criminals.
The following advice lists a few measures that can
make a big difference to the security of yourself and your home. Take a
moment to read through the recommendations. A free, more detailed crime
prevention survey of your property, and advice on alarms, is available.
Contact the Crime Prevention Officer at St Leonard's Community Safety
Department if you would like further information.
l Most callers to your door are probably genuine but
some are not. They could be confidence tricksters or thieves. Genuine
callers will normally make an appointment first and will carry
identification with their photograph on.
l If someone unexpected or strange calls at your door,
check to see who it is first by using a spy hole or front window. Always
put the chain on before opening the door. If you don't have a chain it's
a good idea to get one - they don't cost much. Observe the person
calling at your door closely - look at their clothing - official callers
will have a uniform bearing their organisations name or symbol.
l If you don't know the caller, ask to see their
identity card. Check it carefully and keep the door chain on while you
do this.
l Bogus callers sometime work in pairs. Beware of one
distracting you while the other steals your property. The best practice
is not to let them in. Watch out for anyone who says they are in a
hurry. Don't let them pressure you. If in doubt call a neighbour or a
friend.
l If you have any suspicions at all, don't let them
in.
l If you are still not happy, phone the Police - dial
999 - and tell them what's happened, also tell your neighbours.
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