TWO men have been arrested in relation to seven offences of doorstep crime in East and North Ayrshire.

A 54-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connected to fraud in the Bourtreehill South area of Irvine.

Police arrested and charged a 30-year-old man for fraud related offences in Springside, Irvine, Dalry, Kilmarnock, Hurlford and Stewarton.

All incidents were reported to have taken place in March. 

Locality Policing Inspector, Jason Peter, said: “Officers across Ayrshire have come together to investigate these incidents of doorstep crime. Following extensive enquiries and with the support of local residents these two men were arrested and held in police custody to appear at court in relation to seven alleged offences across North and East Ayrshire.

"Particularly during these challenging times it is vital that we look out for each other, keep an eye on those who may be more vulnerable and know the majority in our communities are law abiding and willing to help others when required.

“Doorstep Criminals, which includes Bogus Callers and Rogue Traders, often target older people and are very convincing. They may offer goods, services or pretend to represent a genuine company or organisation.

“Our advice is not to deal with uninvited callers whether at your door or on the telephone - never be afraid to say no thanks and close the door or hang up the phone.

"Local officers continue to patrol across Ayrshire responding to calls for assistance and supporting our partners in protecting our fellow citizens. Those who break the law will be dealt with appropriately as we ensure the public is kept safe from risk and harm."

"If you have any information about doorstep criminals or notice suspicious activity in your area please report this to your local policing team by calling 101 (always dial 999 in an emergency) or by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained."

"For more information please visit the keep safe pages of the police Scotland website: https://www.scotland.police.uk/keep-safe/"

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