Police issue urgent warning over bogus doorstep callers in two areas of Sheffield

Residents in Darnall and Tinsley are being reminded about the dangers of unexpected doorstep callers and salesmen following an incident last week.

On Thursday, May 20, an elderly man answered his door to a man claiming to be from the gas board

When the visitor was asked to show his ID, the man made several excuses, ultimately refusing to provide any identification documents and then abruptly left the address.

Sergeant Katie Rowland-Wilson, from the Sheffield South East Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “This has all the signs of being a bogus doorstep caller; any genuine worker from an energy or gas company would be happy to show ID when asked.

“The occupant of the address rightly challenged him and refused to let him in the house, despite him being very insistent. This is a really good reminder for all of us, to ask questions and be aware of the dangers of bogus callers.

“If you have any information about this incident, or anything similar in the Darnall and Tinsley areas, please contact my team.”

Residents are urged to look out of a window first to check who is outside before answering their door.

They are also advised to fit a door chain or bar to help keep unwanted visitors out.

The force also warns people against agreeing to pay for goods or giving money to strangers on the doorstep.

Anyone with information should call South Yorkshire Police on 101.

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