ROGUE traders have been targeting elderly residents in the Abergavenny area, with reports of money being "snatched" out of some people's hands.

Victims have been coerced into handing over hundreds of pounds for work the scammers had not yet started, Gwent Police said.

The police have issued an appeal to help catch the suspects, who have targeted at least six victims.

The rogue traders, who on first impression look like legitimate workers, have targeted older residents, tricking them into paying for materials in advance, only for the workers to then disappear with the money.

Victims told the police the scammers became aggressive if questioned.

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 were reported at addresses in Llwynu Lane, Firs Road, Park Crescent, Knoll Road, Wellfield Close, and Brierdene, between Saturday, January 5, and Sunday, January 20.

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 spiky hair, another man 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 Gwent Police on Facebook or Twitter.

Protecting yourself against rogue traders and scammers:

  • Only use businesses that have been recommended to you by a trusted friend or family member and you can see examples of their work.
  • Ask for quotes in writing and then follow up by getting another three quotes from independent traders to check that the price quoted is accurate.
  • Get the address of their company. If possible, visit the premises to check that it exists.
  • Don’t be fooled by someone who says they are just working up the street or that they have done work for your neighbour. Some people say this to gain your trust. Ask for specific examples and then follow up to check if what they have said is true.
  • If someone calls at your home trying to sell you something, don’t let them in and always ask for ID.
  • Many streets in Gwent are now ‘no cold-calling zones’. Talk to the Trading Standards Team in your local council for more information.
  • Remember that traders must give you written notice of your right to 14 days cancellation when agreeing to do work at your home, including work gained from a cold call.

What should you do if you think you have been a victim?

  • Report it to Action Fraud, the national fraud and cyber-crime reporting centre, via www.actionfraud.police.uk/report_fraud or 0300 123 2040.
  • Report it to the Trading Standards team in your local council.
  • Contact Citizens Advice for support on 03454 04 05 06 or www.citizensadvice.org.uk/wales/
  • If you’ve paid by credit or debit card, contact your card provider/bank
  • Call Gwent Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency. You can also contact Connect Gwent, our victims hub, on 0300 123 21 33 or via www.connectgwent.org.uk