TWO men have been arrested by officers investigating an alleged incident involving rogue traders in Rugby.
The arrests happened after neighbours raised concerns that a man in his 80s had been asked to pay thousands of pounds for roof work that didn’t need doing.
It is alleged the suspects approached the victim at his house in the Overslade area and told him his roof needed repairing and asked him for more than £14,000 upfront, which the victim paid.
The suspects returned to the property multiple times demanding more money. The victim handed over another £20,000.
After neighbours raised concerns, officers attended the property and arrested a 43-year-old man from Kettering and 42-year-old man from Corby on suspicion of fraud by false representation. They have both been bailed until next month while enquiries continue.
Detective Constable Matthew Kandt from Rugby CID said: “Rogue traders normally target elderly and vulnerable people. Fortunately, in this case, good-hearted neighbours were looking out for the victim and alerted police to their concerns.
“it is a despicable crime and we urge people to lookout for signs that vulnerable people are being scammed.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting reference 225 of May 3, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Anyone who is concerned someone is being targeted by rogue traders is asked to call 999 if a crime is progress, or 101 to report a crime that has taken place.
Visit https://tinyurl.com/sazrcyt5 for advice on how to spot rogue traders.
