‘Fake Garda’ targeting vulnerable pensioners in Kilkenny

HOUSEHOLDERS have been urged to beware of a conman who is targeting vulnerable pensioners by pretending to be an “under cover” member of An Garda Siochána.

An elderly man in Callan recently fell victim to the scam after a man called to his home claiming to be a plain clothes Garda.

The conman told the pensioner, who lives on Green Lane, that he was investigating a “counterfeit money” scam and asked him to produce any banknotes that he had in his possession.

When the unsuspecting victim handed over a sum of cash, the thief told him to follow him down to Callan Garda Station. But when he arrived at the station gardai confirmed the caller was not a member of An Garda Siochána.

Gardai in Callan are investigating the theft. It is believed the fake Garda was driving a red Seat car with a Cork registration.

Anyone who has seen this vehicle or been approached by anyone claiming to be an undercover Garda is urged to contact Callan Garda Station on 056 772 5232.