Bogus Workmen Target Elderly Resident in Rural Area

Police Scotland is issuing a warning to residents following an incident in which an elderly woman in a rural area near Ellon was targeted by bogus workmen offering driveway repairs.

Without providing a written quote or agreement, they began work immediately, applying a thin layer of tar. The job was completed quickly, to a poor standard and the men then demanded a significantly inflated payment. 

This type of crime is known as bogus or rogue trading and often targets vulnerable individuals, particularly those living alone in isolated areas. The work is usually substandard, overpriced and carried out without proper contracts or guarantees.

Police Scotland urges the public to remain vigilant and to look out for elderly or vulnerable neighbours. If approached by unsolicited tradespeople:

Police Scotland is actively investigating this incident and encourage anyone with information, including vehicle details or descriptions of the men involved, to come forward and quote incident 1301 of 13/09/2026.

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Police Scotland's North East Division covers rural and urban areas in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City.  The division has five territorial command areas which have their own dedicated Area Commander, who is responsible for the daily policing function.  Each command area is served by a number of community policing teams whose activities are built around the needs of the local community.  These teams respond to local calls and look for long term solutions to key issues.  They are assisted by the division's Crime Reduction Unit who deliver against Force and local priorities in a number of areas, including physical and social crime prevention, supporting and enhancing community engagement and creating and sustaining strong and effective partnership working.