Pet owners in West Lothian have been warned to be on their guard after a man impersonating an animal welfare officer took an ‘interest’ in a dog at a home in the region.
Police say a bogus caller knocked the door of a property on Dunn Street in Broxburn on Monday, July 5, telling residents he worked for the SSPCA.
However, that proved to be false, with officers now cautioning dog owners to be vigilant.
No pets were stolen as a result of the incident, but local police are now keen to trace a man seen acting suspiciously in the area who was wearing a jumper with the charity’s logo emblazoned on the front.
Figures released last year revealed dog thefts skyrocketed during lockdown, with seven being reported every day in 2020.
The suspect is said to be white, with dark hair, around 5ft 8in tall, in his 30s and spoke with a local accent.
He was wearing glasses with dark trousers and boots at the time.
A Police Scotland statement said: “West Lothian Police are appealing for witnesses following a suspicious incident in Broxburn on 05/07/2021.
“A male professing to be an SSPCA Officer attended at an address at Dunn Street, Broxburn, and appeared to take an interest in dogs at a property in the street.
“No dogs were stolen as a result of this incident, however we are urging communities to be mindful and vigilant.
“The male is described as white, 5’8” tall, in his 30’s, local accent, wearing glasses, dark hair and was wearing a navy or black jumper with the SSPCA logo, dark trousers and boots.
“If you have any information that could assist in identifying the male please phone 101 quoting incident: 1346 05/07/2021.
“Alternatively if you wish to remain anonymous please contact the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
