Householders in Perth’s North Muirton are being warned to be on their guard against bogus callers.
The warning has been made after local people were the victims of thefts from their homes.
Bogus workmen gained entry by asking residents for access to their properties to carry out tests on mains water supplies.
At a flat in Neave Court, an elderly woman was the victim of such an incident when a man attended at her address, claiming to be from the water board, at about 3.30pm on Monday.
After allowing him access to her property, she later discovered that her purse had been stolen.
The suspect is described as being between 20 and 30 years old, about 6ft tall and was wearing a dark baseball cap, a black and blue tracksuit top, black jogging bottoms with a single blue stripe on each leg and dark footwear.
A similar incident involved a man described as being between 25 and 35 years old, about 5ft 8in, of slim build and wearing a dark jacket and a light tammy. He attended at a flat in Carnegie Place at about 7pm on Monday.
While within the address, under the pretence of checking the water supply, he stole the householder’s wallet and then left the property.
Officers are also continuing inquiries into a report of a workman who went to a flat in Iona Court, also claiming to test the water supply, at about 11am on Monday March 25.
Although nothing was stolen in this incident, police are keen to establish the identity of the man.
He is described as being between 20 and 30 years old, about 5ft 6in, of slim build and at the time was wearing a red waterproof jacket and was carrying a red and grey toolbox.
“Police would ask all residents to be suspicious of anyone arriving unannounced at their door,” said a police spokesperson.
“Householders should ensure that doors are secure, even when at home, and use a door chain. They should not let anyone in until they are certain of who they are, or who they claim to represent.
“With regard to anyone claiming to represent a business, authority or agency, householders should demand to see their identification.
“Bona fide tradespeople, or company representatives will not be offended and will be happy to provide genuine identification.
“Even then, if suspicions remain, residents should close the door and check with the company the caller claims to represent. Don’t take the number from the person on the doorstep, but instead check the phone directory or Yellow Pages.
“Beyond that, if a householder remains suspicious they should not let the person in and should contact the police.”
Police Scotland is also asking neighbours to look out for one another particularly if they have elderly or vulnerable neighbours and report any suspicious activity to the police.
Anyone with information that could assist police with their inquiries should call 101, or speak to any police officer.
Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.