Arrested - rogue trader had targeted elderly Shaw and Chadderton residents

Police received reports of a rogue tradesman operating in areas of Oldham over the last couple of days

An investigation by the Greater Manchester Police Oldham Neighbourhood Team has secured the arrest of a 38-year-old man on suspicion of a number of offences of fraud.

It comes after they received reports of a rogue tradesman operating in areas of Oldham over the last couple of days, who was targeting the addresses of vulnerable elderly people, offering to clean their gutters for money upfront.

On some occasions he was paid in good faith and promised to return and carry out the service - which he never did.

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

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.

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