Published: Wednesday, 13th January, 2010 3:03pm

Warning after bogus callers rob man, 83

By Ewan McInnes

SICK CON: The pensioner was targeted in Manse Court

DESPICABLE thieves targeted an elderly pensioner conning and robbing him of cash.

Between midday and 2pm last Tuesday (January 5), the 83-year-old man was duped by the bogus callers when he answered the door to them at his home in Manse Court, Barrhead.

The two men said that they were from the water board and demanded that he hand over £50 to repair a burst water main.

After showing the OAP some form of identification which was around their necks they managed to gain entry to his home.

The man gave one of the con men £33 from his wallet and whilst speaking to him, the second man stole a further sum from the fireplace in the living room.

Although uninjured, the man has been left extremely traumatised and shaken by the incident.

Detectives are appealing for witnesses and are warning people to be extra vigilant following this incident.

The suspects are described as being white men between 5ft 8 and 5ft 9 in height and both were wearing a working jacket and trousers.

Leading the enquiries into the heart-breaking theft, Detective Sergeant Alan Harvie said: "These men have preyed on a vulnerable member of the community and it is vital that we trace them.

"I would urge residents to be extremely careful about letting people that they don't know or recognise into their homes.

"If they don't recognise the voice of someone at their door or the voice on the other end of their secured entry intercom, then they shouldn't let them in.

"Simply don't let anyone in unless you are expecting them or they can show you legitimate identification."

He continued: "I would appeal to anyone who has any information about this incident, or any local residents who recognise the description of the suspect, or saw anyone hanging around in the vicinity acting suspiciously, to contact their local police office as a matter of urgency."

Giffnock CID can contacted on 0141 532 5757 or alternatively, information can be given to CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.

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