Police are appealing for information following a number of reports of rogue traders operating in the Abergavenny area.
These individuals have targeted predominantly elderly residents, demanding money for work they have not started and becoming aggressive if questioned.
Victims have been coerced into handing over hundreds of pounds, after being told the full amount was required straightaway for the relevant materials before the workers would return within a few days to begin - only for them not to turn up.
Community Support Officer Sara Mason, of the Abergavenny Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Residents, some of whom have actually had money snatched out of their hands, felt pressured by these individuals due to their persistent and charming personas.
“They have also been dressed in hi-vis clothing and driving what looked like a local authority flatbed trucks, in an effort to appear genuine.
“We believe a number of people may be carrying out this activity as a group. Commonly, one person has approached the resident’s door, while others wait in the truck.
“We have had six official reports to date, but we have been made aware of more incidents through our enquiries.
”Incidents have taken place in Llwynu Lane, Firs Road, Park Crescent, Knoll Road, Wellfield Close, and Brierdene, between Saturday, 5th January 2019, and Sunday, 20th January 2019.
Victims and witnesses have described the group as containing at least two men in orange hi-vis clothing, including one male in his late 20s with blonde spikey hair and another in his 30s with dark hair and facial hair, and a woman waiting in the truck.
Anyone with information about these offences can contact Gwent Police on 101, quoting reference 1900009052. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or direct message us on Facebook or Twitter.
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