A thug gang who are understood to be "well known to Gardai" are using a new simple trick as part of a big burglary plot and money scheme.
Residents in west Dublin have been informed by Gardai that the group, who officers have been tracking for some time now, are running a scam as part of their newest strategy.
The members are checking out and calling to residents' houses in the area, giving leaflets and cards to people pretending to be part of a 'power wash and landscaping group'.
But it is understood that the thugs are getting to know the areas in the hope of hitting a 'double-whammy' type scam on unsuspecting homeowners.
A source told Dublin Live: "They hope to receive money for the unofficial services from residents all the while sussing out the houses before returning at a later date to break-in to these homes."
A text alert sent around to residents outlined the new scheme in detail with locals told to report any similar activity to Gardai.
It said: "If you get the following leaflets or cards with the information we have put up please notify Lucan Garda station."
Speaking about a similar scam that took place earlier this year, a spokesman for the Gardai advised people to do the following before handing over money to a charity or anyone else.
"No genuine business or charity will mind you carrying out your own enquiries or calling An Garda Síochána.
"If a person calls to your door offering you professional trade services, selling goods or collecting for a charity and you are worried they are not bona fide, tell the caller that you never deal with people who ‘cold call’ to your door.
"Ask for a brochure or documentation so you can carry out checks and verify their credibility.
"We always want to hear if there are people in the area who may be offering goods or services that are not genuine so don't be afraid to pick up the phone and call us."
