Seven arrested as Gardai warn of bogus door-to-door callers

 By Maurice Garvey

LUCAN gardaí have cracked down on the proliferation of “chancers” trying to scam money from residents during door-to-door bogus collections.

Over the last month, there have been seven arrests of juveniles pretending to collect money for reputable organisations in the Lucan area.

The news was welcomed by Fine Gael Councillor William Lavelle, who received confirmation from gardaí surrounding the spate of incidents.

Cllr Lavelle said: “Gardaí confirmed to me that there have been seven arrests (or detentions of a juvenile) over recent weeks, on foot of calls from the public regarding bogus collectors going door-to-door in Lucan.

“I wish to thank gardaí for their responses to calls from the public and to crack down on these bogus collectors.”

Unfortunately, this isn’t the first time bogus collectors have been spotted in the area.

At various times in Lucan and Palmertsown over the last few years, teenagers have pretended to collect sponsorship money for a slew of community centres, sports organisations and charities.

A number of community organisations have expressed their frustration with the activity, which they say, can affect legitimate fundraising efforts.

Legitimate fundraising is usually advertised on organisation websites, or in local media outlets.

Lucan gardaí say the activity is not linked to a criminal syndicate, but more a case of “young people chancing their arm.”

Local gardaí encourage residents to be vigilant, ask callers for ID/questions, and check details on sponsorship cards if possible.

A spokesperson for Lucan gardaí said: “There would have been young people doing this, very young teenagers. The advice would be not to give money unless it’s a credible organisation. You have to have authorisation and permits to go door to door.

“It’s just young people chancing their arm. But there are very genuine organisations collecting money, they depend on it, and you don’t want them to lose that. Most of the cases (illegal) are obvious. If they don’t have a permit, or any suspicions, contact your local garda station.”

If anyone suspects bogus collectors operating in the area, they are encouraged to call Lucan Garda Station at 6667300 or Ronanstown Garda Station at 6667700.