A Dundee pensioner was left feeling “threatened” and “intimidated” after bogus builders targeted him in a brazen con.
It is the second such incident in recent days after a couple in their 90s were targeted in a similar scam last week.
The sham builders had initially asked for £850 to fix a broken roof. Despite not even starting the work, they returned and began demanding almost £2,000 from the pensioner.
The 68-year old said: “They became very threatening and I felt intimidated. They really hassled me.
“I gave them £150 because I was really afraid that if I didn’t they would demand to take me to the bank. But it didn’t end there. We have had threatening phone calls and abuse from them.
“I contacted the police, who left a message on the number the company had given me, telling them not to call again. We couldn’t find an address for them.
“Even then, they came back to demand the money. But my darling wife didn’t take any nonsense from them and since then they’ve left us alone, thankfully.”
The pensioner, who did not wish to be identified, said the conmen came round after the couple had legitimately sought quotes to fix the broken roof.
“In early December, we had some damage to our roof that needed repairing. My insurance company suggested I contact some firms to get a quote.
“Then a few days later a company turned up. I hadn’t called them, but they offered to do the work then and there for £850.
“When they came down, claiming the work had been done which of course it hadn’t they then started demanding £1,950.
“It was absolutely horrible. They stand right up close to you and look like real thugs. I really did feel under threat.”
Police have yet to confirm if they are linking this case to an incident last week when a couple were scammed by two bogus builders.
In that incident, a bogus builder, accompanied by another man, also demanded almost £2,000 for uncompleted work, after initially quoting a price of £180.
And, when the pensioner insisted he did not have that much cash, the shameless fraudster tried to walk him to the bank.
Police are now hunting the charlatan builders who targeted the couple.
Both suspects are described as being aged between late 20s and late 30s.
One was 5ft 9ins, of medium build, wearing a dark green baseball cap, dark green or black gardening style clothes.
The other was of stocky build, wearing a dark tammy. The pair made off in a white van.
Anyone who has information regarding bogus workmen can contact police on 101.
People can also call the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.