Midlands manhunt after bogus garda targetted pensioner in 'appaling incident'

Detectives are on the hunt for a brazen thief who carried out an “appalling incident of intimidation and deception” by cheating his way into the home of a pensioner in the Midlands last week and robbing him while posing as a bogus garda.

The incident took place in Legan, Longford last Thursday evening when the male suspect knocked at the door of his victim.

The unsuspecting pensioner, who is aged in his mid 70s allowed the man inside after being told by his assailant that he was doing a routine check on elderly people after being newly assigned to the area.

The thief is believed to have made off with the man's wallet moments after asking his victim to 'mark' it for security purposes in the event of a robbery.

A garda spokesperson confirmed an investigation into the circumstances surrounding last Thursday's incident was now underway.

"Gardaí are investigating a burglary that occurred at a residence in Legan, Co Longford on Thursday evening, 31st August 2023.”

Sgt Damien Bartley is the crime prevention officer for Longford and Roscommon.

“This was an appalling incident of intimidation and deception and we're supporting the victim as we investigate,” said Sgt Bartley.

He urged homeowners to refrain from keeping large sums of cash at home, to stop short of opening doors to dubious callers and to always check for ID before letting anyone into their homes.