News

Police remind the vulnerable to beware of bogus and cold callers

Published

8 years ago

October 12, 2016

door-knock-preview FOLLOWING reports of a spate of recent cold calling events in Pembrokeshire, Dyfed-Powys Police are reminding homeowners and relatives of vulnerable people to be vigilant to the risks of cold callers.

Bogus callers prey on the most vulnerable people in our communities attempting to con them out of vast amounts of money for unnecessary and overpriced work. Sometimes they pretend to be from reputable companies and sometimes they resort to distraction tactics.

Cold callers will phone or knock your door unannounced and try to sell you a product or service. Many are genuine but some can be scams.

Sergeant Geraint Lewis, of Dyfed Powys Police, said: “Unfortunately not everyone who knocks unannounced at your door has a genuine reason for being there. Bogus callers are criminals and we encourage residents to beware and know what to do if they do receive a visit from a bogus caller with making sure you ask for ID a priority, along with fitting and using a door chain. If in doubt, keep them out.”

Police in Pembrokeshire are warning homeowners and relatives of elderly and vulnerable people to be aware that bogus and cold callers are out there and to advise of some simple steps people can take to protect themselves:

Consider fitting a chain on the door – and always use it. Remember to keep the door chain on until you are sure your caller is genuine.
Do not let anyone into your home that you do not know or until you are completely satisfied that they are who they say they are.
Make sure the caller is genuine. Ask to see identification. If in doubt, telephone the company the caller says they work for. Don’t use a number on their card but look it up in the phone book.
Don’t let the caller stop you doing these things by saying he or she is in a hurry. A genuine caller won’t mind waiting outside with the door closed while you ring.
If you are blind, partially sighted, or have difficulty moving about, you can arrange to have your meters read at an agreed time by a named person. When they call, the meter reader will give their name or an agreed password. If you are worried ring the police.
Ask a neighbour or friend to visit while the caller is there
Never leave a key hidden outside the home (e.g. under a doormat)
If you are selling your home, don’t show people around on your own. Ask your estate agent to send a representative with anyone who wants to view your house.

Call 101 to report a suspected bogus caller or rogue trader. Call 999 if they become aggressive or to report a distraction burglary.

For more advice on protecting yourself and your home from bogus callers visit www.dyfed-powys.police.uk or call 101.

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

23 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

2 days ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

2 days ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!