Four suspected rogue traders have been arrested following allegations they duped a pensioner into handing over £18,000 for roof work in Gillingham.
The victim, in his 80s, visited his bank on Wednesday 28 September 2022 where he requested to withdraw a further £8,000.
However, bank staff became concerned and prevented the transaction from being completed and alerted Kent Police.
On Wednesday 5 October officers arrested four men from Orpington on suspicion of fraud.
Two men aged 32 and two men aged 39 and 45 years old, have since been bailed until Saturday 22 October while officers carry out enquiries surrounding the incident.
Left with a large hole in his roof
District Commander for Medway, Chief Inspector Shona Lowndes said: ‘The victim has been left with a large hole in his roof.
‘While the circumstances surrounding this incident are ongoing, I wanted to take the opportunity to remind people to look out for their vulnerable family, friends and neighbours.
‘Rogue traders often target those who live alone, will cold call by door knocking and then state the victims need costly repair work carried out to their properties. Often this work is unnecessary, and if it is needed it is often grossly overpriced.’
Anyone concerned about incidents involving fraud and rogue traders can report the details here.