The items sold to the woman, who lives alone, have been retained as evidence. Photograph: An Garda SíochánaGardaí say the woman was targeted by cold-callers and pressured to paying an ''extortionate'' amount.
A Gardaí investigation is underway in Cork after an elderly woman was pressured into paying “an extortionate price” for tools she didn't want or need, reports the Irish Times.
Gardaí say suspects called to the woman’s home in Bantry uninvited and pressured her into buying 12 chainsaws, 11 generators, seven power washers and assorted tools.
The woman, who lives alone, handed over a substantial amount of money via several cheques, most of which were cancelled before being cashed.
Speaking at Cork’s Anglesea Street Garda Station, Crime Prevention Officer Sergeant Tony Davis said: “This is a heinous crime that was committed as it targets the more vulnerable members of our communities. If you have elderly or vulnerable neighbours and see or hear about bogus traders doing the rounds, let them and ourselves know so we can put out additional patrols.
“If you suspect that anyone who calls to your door selling goods or services is not who they say they are, tell them you are not interested and call the gardaí immediately. Genuine tradespeople won’t be offended by any queries the gardaí may make.
“If you are answering the door to ‘cold-callers’, apply the chain or door limiter before opening the door. I would also ask that if anyone feels like they, or someone they know has been a victim of being sold goods for extortionate prices, or paid for a service that was not carried out, to call any Garda station and report the matter.”
