Warning as men impersonating Garda call to homes of elderly

Gardai are urging the public to be vigilant after two incidents of individuals pretending to be members of the force occurred recently.

On Friday 30th October At approximately 11.45am, a lone male called to the home of an elderly female in the Carnaross area of Kells claiming that he was a Garda. He showed what appeared to be a Garda identification and produced a sum of money and enquired if the lady owned it. The lady was suspicious of the caller and activated a panic alarm with the male then hastily leaving in a navy saloon type car.

Shortly afterwards, a similar incident occurred in the Kilmessan area. Between 12pm and 1pm, a lone male called to the home of an elderly female. He claimed to be a Garda and briefly showed some form of identification. He claimed he had seen two youths running from the lady’s house with cash. The resident was suspicious and did not open the door. The male then left.

Gardai are appealing for information on the incidents.

A spokesperson said:

"Don't open your door to anyone before you have confirmed who it is and what they want, even if this means ringing Gardaí to confirm they are who they say they are. We ask you to be vigilant and keep an eye on your neighbours, particularly the elderly and vulnerable. Report suspicious persons and vehicles to Gardaí immediately.

"If you noticed any suspicious vehicles or persons in these areas around these time, please contact your local Garda Station or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111."