Donegal Gardaí have warned that ‘Tarmac scam’ operators are currently active within the county.
The last place they were observed today was in Churchill.
“We have had numerous calls in relation to men who have recently been calling door to door in an orange coloured lorry and a silver Landcruiser at various locations in Donegal,” a garda spokesperson said.
The conmen typically go door-to-door, claiming to be a builder working on a contract who has some leftover tarmac, and offering to conduct work on a driveway at a low cost. “The material then used is often gravel chippings covered with engine oil or not the right depth and type of materials to form a lasting road surface,” the spokesperson added.
The conmen may target elderly, vulnerable residents and claim to be official contractors working on roadworks to add credibility. They often increase the cost during the course of the work claiming that the job has required more material than expected and they may then start to issue threats.
“Do not open your door to anybody unless you are sure of who they are. Use a chain lock for extra security. Do not agree to have work carried out by these types of callers and do not provide them with your personal details.”
Please be vigilant and inform Gardaí if you have callers at your home or business who are offering to lay tarmac.
If possible take note of their direction of travel, their description and registration numbers. Should you capture them on CCTV, doorbell camera or dash cam, please make the footage available to Gardaí. Please advise elderly/vulnerable family members & friends in relation to these types of callers & in relation to this type of scam.
Should you come across these men, call Gardaí immediately in Letterkenny on 074-9167100, Buncrana on 074-9320540, Milford on 074-9153060 or Ballyshannon on 071-9858530. You can also contact the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.
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