Police advise residents to be vigilant after bogus caller incidents

Police in Macclesfield are warning people to be vigilant following two bogus caller incidents.

The first was in Knutsford at an address in the Parkgate area of Knutsford last month. The second happened in the Weston area of Macclesfield yesterday (19 March). On the first occasion the man purported to be a taxi driver, while the second pretended to be a gas engineer. Both times the bogus caller managed to talk his way into the address of an elderly resident.

The man in both cases is described as being white of eastern European origin, with dark hair.

DC Clare Slattery said: “While nothing was taken, these incidents are very concerning so we want to take this opportunity to remind people not to let anyone into their home if they are not expecting anyone. I’d urge neighbours and families with elderly relatives to look out for them and report any suspicious activity - remind elderly neighbours, friends and family not to open the door to strangers.

“I’d like to reassure the community that we are focussing on these areas and are committed to finding whoever is trying to take advantage of vulnerable members of our community.

“I cannot stress enough the importance of people not letting anyone into their home who calls unexpectedly and if you have a chain, always use it. Make sure you ask for identification and if they provide it, close the door and check the number, but most importantly, if you have any doubts about the caller being genuine, don't let them in and ask them to come back later when you are not alone.”