Gardaí warn of conmen operating a ‘tarmac scam' in and around Glenties

An Garda Siochana have issued a warning about conmen who are offering tarmac services in the Glenties area.

A man or men typically go door-to-door, claiming to be a builder/s working on a contract who have some leftover tarmac and offering to conduct work on a driveway or surroundings of a building at a low cost.

The material then used is often gravel chippings covered with engine oil or not the right depth and type of materials to form a lasting road surface. These conmen may target elderly, vulnerable residents or businesses and claim to be official contractors working on roadworks to add credibility.

They often increase the cost during the course of the work claiming that the job has required more material than expected and they may then start issuing threats.

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Gardaí said: “We received reports of these types of bogus callers in the Glenties area very recently. They were travelling in a white Land Rover Defender although please keep in mind that various vehicles would likely be in use by them. Please be vigilant and inform Gardaí immediately should you have callers at your home or business who are offering to lay tarmac.

“Do not open your door to anybody unless you are sure who they are. Use a chain lock for extra security. Do not agree to have work carried out by these types of callers and do not provide them with your personal details. Should you come across these callers, please contact us immediately in Letterkenny on 074-9167100, Buncrana on 074-9320540, Milford on 074-9153060 or Ballyshannon on 071-9858530.

"If possible take note of their direction of travel, their description and registration numbers. Should you capture them on CCTV, doorbell camera or dash cam, please make the footage available to Gardaí. Please advise elderly/vulnerable family members and friends in relation to these types of callers and in relation to this type of scam.”