Man arrested after rogue tradesman targets vulnerable elderly people and never returns after being paid

A man has been arrested after a rogue tradesman targeted vulnerable elderly people in OIdham - taking their money but never returning to do the work he promised.

Greater Manchester Police launched an investigation after receiving a number of reports about a rogue tradesman operation across Oldham over the past few days.

It was reported he was targeting addresses of vulnerable elderly people, offering to clean their gutters for money upfront. On some occasions he was paid and promised to return and carry out the service - which he never did.

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The addresses targeted were in the Shaw and Chadderton areas, although officers believe there could be other victims spanning across other areas of Oldham.

Police have now arrested a 38-year-old man on Thursday (May 4) on suspicion of a number of offences of fraud.

Oldham District Chief Inspector for Neighbourhood and Partnership, Abigail Cronin said; "Following some excellent investigative work by the Oldham Neighbourhood Team, I am pleased to report a man has been arrested on suspicion of fraud and remains in custody for questioning.

"I'd also like to thank the victims and their families for coming forwards and reporting the matter to GMP and would urge anyone else who has experienced something similar to also make a report.

"We believe there may be other victims out there and if you think you or a member of your family has been targeted, I would urge you to get in touch."

You can make a report by calling 101 quoting 3424-02052023 or by contacting the Neighbourhood Crime Team directly on 0161 856 4521. Alternatively you can make a report anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.