Fake callers are knocking on people’s doors in Perth and asking if they have a spare room to host Afghan refugees.
The incidents have been reported to Perth and Kinross Council and the police in the city’s North Muirton area.
Those involved claim to be from the local authority – but it is unclear what the motivation is for the visits.
In a series of tweets the council said: “We have received reports of individuals claiming to be from the council knocking on doors in the North Muirton area asking if residents have a spare room and be willing to house a refugee from Afghanistan.
We have received reports of individuals claiming to be from the Council knocking on doors in the North Muirton area asking if residents have a spare room and be willing to house a refugee from Afghanistan.
Please be advised that they are not working on behalf of the Council.— Perth & Kinross Council (@PerthandKinross) September 2, 2021
“Please be advised that they are not working on behalf of the council.
“Accommodation in the private-rented sector has already been identified and funding is being provided by the Home Office to cover all of the costs of the relocation of Afghan families.”
It added: “We are engaging with a range of partners across the public, private and third sector as well as community groups and social enterprises to co-ordinate support for any families resettled into the Perth and Kinross area.
Offers of help from across Perthshire
“We’re receiving offers of support/donations from individuals and communities across Perth and Kinross which is appreciated.
“If you would like to help email MinoritiesHub@pkavs.org.uk for advice on the kind of donations needed for people who are being resettled in Perth and Kinross.”
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We are aware of the issue and are working with partner agencies.
“If anyone has any concerns we would advise them to contact 101 and report the matter.”
On Tuesday, it was announced that six Afghan families or 10 individuals fleeing from the Taliban will be housed in Perth and Kinross.
It came after the UK Government appealed to councils to house people fleeing from Afghanistan.
It means that about 3,000 people and 600 families will be given refuge in the UK by the end of September.