Police warning after spate of 'utility company' robberies in Leeds

West Yorkshire Police issued the warning after several serious incidents where criminals posing as utility company workers conned large quantities of cash from elderly people across the county.

Several offences have occurred in the south Leeds area in the last few days where men working in pairs visit addresses and ask residents for details, including their phone number, while claiming to have done work on the drains and asking for cash.

One of the men then walks away with the information given by the resident, and when the resident questions whether any work has been carried out, they then receive a phone call.

The caller claims to be the man's employer, who explains that if they do not hand over cash they will be taken to court.

At this point some residents have agreed to hand over cash on the doorstep, but on some occasions the offenders have taken the resident to their nearest bank.

In one particular incident, the offender has even travelled with their victim on a bus to the bank.

City and Holbeck CID are carrying out detailed enquiries into the incidents in the south Leeds area, and Neighbourhood Policing Teams (NPTs) have been carrying out reassurance patrols in the areas affected.

Similar incidents have been reported in other areas across the county and detectives are urging members of the public to be vigilant.

Detective Inspector Jim Dunkerley, of City and Holbeck CID, said: "These are extremely serious incidents where criminals have preyed on elderly people to con them out of large amounts of money, and on some occasions have even been bold enough to escort them to the bank to ensure they get the cash.

"The reality is, if you are unaware of any works carried out at your home it is because they won't have been, and utility companies never ask for money on your doorstep.

"Utility companies always contact residents in advance of any works being carried out and will always invoice you by post. If you have any concerns about callers at your door claiming to be utility workers, you must contact the police immediately."

Det Insp Dunkerley added: "Bank workers and the public should also look out for anyone who looks suspicious or uncomfortable when visiting the bank.

"The victims of these offences are being asked for substantial amounts of money and will no doubt be concerned about withdrawing such sums because it may leave them short of funds to pay other bills.

"I would encourage bank tellers to ask their customers why they are withdrawing the money, and report any concerns to the police immediately. Members of the public who spot anything suspicious should also report this straight away."

Anyone with suspicions about a caller at the door, or has information which they feel can assist police, should contact 0845 6060606. If they are particularly concerned, ring 999 immediately.