By Dave Lord

POLICE IN Tayside have launched an appeal for witnesses after callous criminals stole money from some of the area’s most vulnerable residents.

Pensioners in Perth and Kinross are being urged to be on their guard after hundreds of pounds was stolen from householders on Friday.

Police said that in one particularly sickening incident cash was taken from a 92-year-old woman.

A spokesman revealed that property had been damaged at one house and that all those targeted had been left traumatised.

“Householders in the area—particularly the elderly—should be on their guard against bogus callers after a group of three men entered four houses across Perthshire and stole cash running into hundreds of pounds,” said a Tayside Police spokesman.

“The first incident happened around 10 am on Friday in Springfield, Kinross, where an elderly female answered her door to three men who claimed to be from the water board.

“The second incident occurred around 50 minutes later in Aberargie, Perthshire.

“On this occasion the elderly occupant opened the door to three men, who again claimed to be from the water board. They were refused entry, but damaged the door before leaving.”

The spokesman said that two further incidents were soon reported.

“At around midday on Friday in Whitefriars Street, Perth, two men entered a house and stole a three-figure sum of money,” he said. “Again the occupiers were elderly.

“Finally, at around 12.50 pm in Ogilvie Place, Blackford, two men entered a house occupied by a 92-year-old woman and stole money.

“Although none of the householders were hurt as a result of these incidents, all were understandably shaken by their ordeal.”

The incidents happened over a relatively wide area but police nevertheless suspect them to be linked.

The first suspect is described as being 17 years old, five feet four inches, with dark cropped hair and wearing a denim jacket and blue jeans.

The second, aged in his mid 20s, has dark curly hair and was wearing navy clothing at the time of the incidents.

A third suspect was described by police as being aged in his 30s, six feet, of stocky build, unshaven and with blonde/ginger hair. He was wearing a pink checked shirt and dark trousers.

Police said none of them spoke with a local accent. The trio are believed to be using a metallic green/grey Ford Focus.

“We would appeal to all householders to be vigilant and suspicious of everyone who calls unannounced at their front door,” the spokesman added.

“Where someone claims to be a tradesman demand to see some form of identification. Even then, if you are not satisfied that they are who they claim to be, do not let them in.

“Keep an eye out for neighbours, particularly the more vulnerable members of our community,” he urged.

Anyone with information should contact Tayside police in Perth 01738 621141, or speak to any officer.