Morriston on High Alert as Police Intensify Hunt for Fake Charity Collector
SWANSEA, UK – A community-wide alert remains in effect across Morriston and neighbouring areas as South Wales Police have intensified their investigation into reports of a man fraudulently collecting money by posing as a charity representative. The warning, issued earlier this week, has been reinforced after further reports emerged, prompting calls for increased vigilance among residents.
The initial incident, which took place on the evening of Tuesday, June 4th, involved a man going door-to-door, allegedly claiming to represent several well-known local businesses and a prominent Swansea-based charity to solicit cash donations. Residents reported the man as being particularly persuasive, causing concern that vulnerable members of the community may have been targeted.
In a detailed statement, South Wales Police confirmed the ongoing situation: “Officers have received multiple reports concerning an individual falsely purporting to represent local businesses and asking for donations in the Morriston area. We have launched a full investigation into this scam and are urging residents to be extremely cautious.”
The force has now released a more detailed description of the individual based on witness accounts. He is described as a man in his late 20s or early 30s, of medium build, who was wearing a dark-coloured baseball cap and a high-visibility jacket over casual clothing. He was reportedly carrying a laminated sheet of paper which he used to present his fraudulent claims.
In light of the initial reports, a well-regarded local Swansea charity, whose name was being wrongfully used in the scam, issued a public statement on their social media channels. “We are deeply saddened to learn that our charity’s name is being used to deceive the good people of our community,” the post read. “We want to be clear: we do not conduct unsolicited door-to-door cash collections. We are liaising with the police and urge anyone who has been approached to contact them immediately.”
Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) have maintained a visible presence in Morriston throughout the week, conducting house-to-house inquiries and offering reassurance to concerned residents. They have been providing homeowners with guidance on how to handle unexpected callers.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Community
South Wales Police have issued comprehensive advice on how to stay safe and what to do if you encounter a suspicious caller:
- Always Use Your Door Chain: Before opening your door fully, use the chain or speak through a spyhole to see who is there.
- Demand to See Identification: Legitimate charity collectors and fundraisers are required to carry formal identification, which should be clearly displayed. Do not be afraid to take a moment to inspect it carefully. A genuine collector will not mind waiting.
- Check for Official Branding: Collectors should have officially branded clothing, collection buckets, or lanyards. Be wary of makeshift or poorly printed materials.
- Never Feel Pressured: Scammers often use high-pressure tactics, creating a sense of urgency or making you feel guilty. A legitimate fundraiser will be polite and understanding if you do not wish to donate.
- Trust Your Instincts and Refuse to Donate: If you feel unsure or suspicious for any reason, do not donate. Politely close the door. You can always find the charity’s official website online to make a secure donation if you choose to.
- Report Every Suspicious Incident: Call the police on the non-emergency number 101 as soon as possible to report a suspicious caller, providing as much detail as you can (description, time, what was said). This information is vital for the police investigation. If you feel threatened or in immediate danger, always call 999.
Police are urging the community to help protect its most vulnerable members by sharing this information with elderly neighbours, family, and friends who may be less aware of these scams. By staying alert and reporting any suspicious behaviour, residents can play a crucial role in preventing further fraudulent activity.
