Police are urging people to look out for their neighbours and report suspicious incidents, during the launch of an operation focussed on those who commit artifice offences in Portsmouth, after a series of burglaries across the city.

The work that is claimed to have been done is nearly always on the roof, chimney or guttering, which older people may have trouble seeing properly when they are approached.

Often the bogus workmen begin by saying, “You remember me don’t you?” or similar, confusing the victim. They approach either outside of the homeowners address or in the street, and appear to mainly strike around lunchtime, most often on weekdays. None of these incidents have taken place at night, always in daylight.

The men involved will not accept any payment other than cash, and may offer to accompany their victim to a bank or cash point. The maximum amount stolen in one incident is £2000.

From the descriptions given so far it appears that there is a group operating across the city. A number of vehicles have been described, including an old dark blue car, a red car, a white car derived van, a blue van, and a new blue car.

There are possible three men involved in these incidents, and one is present on nearly all occasions. He is a white man aged in his 40s or 50s. He is around 5ft 8ins to 5ft 10ins tall and of large build, with brown hair and a ruddy looking complexion. He is clean shaven and well presented, sometimes wears a hat and has a local accent. 

The offenders have struck at properties in Fratton, Southsea and Central areas of Portsmouth so far, and many of the incidents seem to have been opportunistic, with no pattern in the locations.

Spot checks on builders and trades people by Trading Standards and police happen every year under Operation Mississippi, and will continue in support of Operation Charles, and advice on what to do if you or anyone you know is approached is being circulated around Portsmouth to raise awareness of the issue.

Officers are working to identify those involved and educate residents across the city as to the risks of allowing these people into your home, or by giving them any money.

If you do not recall any work being arranged do not pay the men. If you are approached or receive a caller at your home and you do not recognise them or they do not have ID, do not let them in and do not give them any money. Please call the police as soon as possible so that these offenders may be identified and caught.

Sergeant Bryan Carter said, “These men are targeting those most vulnerable in our society and we are putting a lot of effort into finding them. This kind of incident is despicable and I would urge people to report anyone suspicious they are approached by.

“I would also remind residents to look out for any older neighbours or relatives they have, and again urge them to call police if they have any suspicions about callers or workmen who have asked for payment when the work may not have been done.”

If you, a relative or neighbour has a person requesting money for work at your house call police immediately on 999.