Offaly gardaí issue warning after recent incidents surge

Offaly gardaí have issued a warning to people after a number of reports of bogus traders in recent weeks. They've also moved to warn people about withdrawing and storing money from financial institutions.

Regarding bogus traders calling to house in Offaly, Laois-Offaly Crime Prevention Officer, Sgt. Graham Kavanagh said, "you know your property better then anyone else and what needs to be done."

"Don't take advice of some stranger that arrives into the area offering work," he added. Sgt. Kavanagh advised people to research and ask questions that genuine tradespeople will understand and not to be put under pressure.

"Say no, walk away and contact Gardaí if you feel intimidated or threatened," he said. "Use genuine trades and ask locally about trades."

Also this week, Sgt. Kavanagh has issued a warning to people to be careful and mindful when handling large sums of money from a bank or financial institution.

"When attending financial institutions and withdrawing monies be cognisant that there may be people watching your movements and will attempt to steal this money," he said.

"If you have to withdraw monies then go straight to the place or person you are giving the cash to. Consider electronic payments too, and don't ever leave cash in your vehicle," he warned.

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