Police officers in Perth are hunting for the heartless criminals who scammed a 91-year-old woman out of a significant sum of money.
The bogus workmen secured a three-figure sum from the vulnerable pensioner after turning up at her door and offering gardening services.
Investigators described the crime as “despicable” and are seeking public help to trace the two men responsible.
It is the second time in a matter of weeks that a city pensioner has been targeted by bogus workmen.
In March, a group of young thieves targeted the Feus Road home of a 90-year-old woman before making-off on a bus.
They had offered gardening work and though the householder declined their services she realised they had snatched her handbag, containing a purse and her bank cards.
The latest incident is said to have taken place between April 1 and April 10 and saw two men visit the victim’s home to demand money.
In the first instance, a man turned up at the 91-year-old’s door offering gardening services.
After a three figure sum was handed over he promised to return later and “finish the work”.
The man is described as five foot nine inches in height and of average build with short dark hair.
He was never seen again but, having secured money once, the gang attempted to prey upon their victim a second time.
On this occasion a different man visited the address in the city’s Crieff Road and demanded more money for the “work”.
Police Scotland said they had not succeeded in securing any further money.
The second man is described as tall and of average build and was wearing a light coloured jumper and trousers at the time.
A spokeswoman for Police Scotland said: “Officers are keen to speak to the two men in connection with this incident.
“This was a despicable crime, which involved targeting an elderly person in their own home.
“We would urge anyone with any information that may be useful to contact Tayside Division on 101 or pass information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
The flurry of incidents has forced local councillors to warn residents to be extra careful and call upon neighbours and family to look out for the safety of vulnerable people.
