WARNING! Men are calling to homes pretending to be gardaí

Gardaí are reporting an increase of incidents in the Westmeath and Meath area of males calling to people’s homes pretending to be garda offiers.

The men ask for money for fines unpaid or entry into the home where they then demand money and intimidate the occupants.

Gardaí are asking that if a person calls to your door, not in uniform, ask for their identification badge.

All detectives or gardaí in plain clothes carry their official identification at all times.

Vulnerable or older people are being targeted.

Sergeant John McWalter, Garda Crime Prevention Office, Westmeath, based atMullingar Garda Station, said: “This is a horrible crime on members of our community and we are anxious that it be stopped immediately.

“Gardaí will never ask for money on your doorstep.

“Please report all crimes of this nature of any incidents where people are pretending to be members of An Garda Síochána.”