Gardaí issue thanks as suspicious vehicle located in Laois

Laois Gardaí are thanking the public for helping them locate a suspicious vehicle that was calling to houses and businesses offering services. 

“Thanks to those who phoned in, we were able to stop this vehicle a short time later and the occupants of the VW have been dealt with appropriately by Abbeyleix Gardai,” gardai said in an updated post. 

They had located the car after issuing a warning of a suspicious VW golf calling to properties on Wednesday. 

“Gardai in Abbeyleix have been made aware of a black VW Golf with UK registration plates calling to homes and businesses in the area offering tarmac, roofing and other services. The VW Golf has a light beacon on the roof and a sticker/decal on the drivers front door. 

Please contact us here at Abbeyleix Garda Station on 057 8730580 to report any suspicious activity,” they had posted at the time. 

A number of hours later gardaí caught up with the vehicle. 

Gardaí also issued some useful advice to householders in relation to callers.

“Unfortunately, everyone can receive visits from bogus callers and our older persons are frequently targeted by them.

Bogus callers will say anything to get into your home or onto your property.

“There’s been an accident, can I call an ambulance?”

“I’ve broken down, can I use your phone?”

“I’ve had a fall, could I have a glass of water”

“I’m from the council, there’s a burst main, I need to turn off your supply” 

Occasionally we see them telling people they are members of An Garda Síochána that are investigating counterfeit money. They then steal people's money.

Some will keep you talking at the front door while their accomplice sneaks in the back door. In all cases you need to be wary of strangers calling to your home. 

They will be offering services such as powerwashing, painting, selling goods etc.

 Take precautions -

• Do not open the door to anyone before you’ve checked who it is and what they want. Use your door viewer and chain/limiter. 
• Check identification, where appropriate.
• Do not leave strangers unattended at your doorstep.
• Ensure your back door is locked when you answer a call at the front door.
• keep gates to yards closed.

We advise and encourage people not to engage with such callers. Don't open your door to anyone before you have checked who it is and what they want. They can be intimidating and refuse to take no for an answer. We ask you to be vigilant when out and about and report suspicious persons/vehicles to us immediately. Please pass this advice on to those in our community that may not follow our page.

Remember if in doubt keep them out,” gardaí said.