Waveney Road incident:Bogus caller claimed to be a detective - PSNI

A bogus caller falsely claimed to be a police officer when he visited a house in the Waveney Road area of Ballymena last week. .
By The Newsroom
Published 26th Oct 2011, 10:46 BST

Inspector John Allen of Ballymena Neighbourhood Policing Team said the man called at the house a purporting to be a police detective investigating an incident at a nearby property.

He said: “The occupier became suspicious when the man asked what valuables and money he kept in the house”.

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The man is described as being six feet tall and of large build. He spoke with a southern Irish accent and wore a suit and overcoat.

The man was driving a large silver car which had a Republic of Ireland registration plate.

Inspector Allen said: “We are asking the public to remain vigilant. Unexpected callers should always be kept outside on the doorstep until such time as the occupant can verify the person’s identity.

“Bogus callers will sometimes offer residents a brief glimpse of an identity card in the hope this will satisfy them. Don’t be fooled. Ask to see the identity card properly. Make the caller remove the card from its holder and hand it to you so that you can examine it closely.

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“Check that the photograph matches the person on the doorstep, and record all the details so that you can telephone Quick Check - dial 0800 013 22 90 and the person on the other end will check the caller at your door is legitimate. The service is free and operates 24 hours a day. Genuine callers will not mind waiting until you have checked that they are who they say they are. If you are not convinced by the identity of the caller, do not let them in and call police immediately.

“If you have elderly relatives, neighbours, or provide care for anyone who may fall prey to this type of crime, make them aware of these messages. Police are always keen to hear from anyone who may have been approached at their home by a caller purporting to be from a legitimate company, or by anyone using an excuse to enter your home,” the Inspector added.

If you would like advice on crime prevention and how to make your home safer, please contact your local crime prevention officer on 0845 600 8000.