Unexpected callers

Resident

We have received reports of rogue traders making phone calls stating they have will have tarmac left over from work on the highways and offering to fill in pot holes.  Males with their faces covered then attend, carrying out a rushed job spreading gravel out then leave after a short time.  

After this, another phone call is then made requesting a large sum of money typically £10,000.00 plus.  This is followed by threats to property and physical violence along with the request being halved to around £8000.00.  Some instances have seen cash being paid and some haven't, either way, there are typically more threats made to try and blackmail more money out of people/businesses.  

The initial phone call appears to be from someone with a English accent, with the following calls being from someone with an Irish accent.  

A white IVECO flat bed van is being used in these circumstances, if you see anything suspicious or have a concern after a phone call, please call 101 immediately or 999 if in an emergency.   

These calls appear to be being made to businesses, however, we are warning residential occupants of this scam also so that they are aware.  

If you have a bad feeling about a phone call, hang up the phone, make a note of the number and consider reporting this to police, as well as if any unwanted visitors attend your property/business.  

Thankyou