Public warned over bogus Scottish SPCA inspectors responding to 'animal neglect reports' in Cambuslang

An animal charity has warned members of the public of two men who have visited properties in South Lanarkshire claiming to be inspectors responding to neglect reports.

The Scottish SPCA have asked the public to be vigilant after a household on Ell Crescent in Cambuslang was visited on two separate occasions on Friday, November 18 by the bogus inspectors, who claimed they were responding to reports of animal neglect at a neighbouring property.

While the individuals claimed to be from the Scottish SPCA, they did not produce any badges.

They also claimed their branded company van was parked down the street and out of view at the time.

Scottish SPCA chief superintendent, Mike Flynn, said: “Both visits occurred on Friday November 18; the first at 4.30pm and the second at 6pm.

“The men asked about the property next door, claiming to be investigating a report of neglected dogs, but did not produce any employee badges.

“The neighbour the men were enquiring about was out at the time of the visit but the household later informed them about the incident. Someone from the property in question then called our helpline to ask for more information.

“At this point our team were able to confirm that the men were not our officers.

“This was a very distressing experience for both the household approached and the neighbour being targeted.

“Our inspectors will always be in uniform and will be able to provide badges with a photo and authorisation. Our inspectors will also be happy to provide you with vehicle registration.

“If you are at all unsure about someone who comes to your door claiming to be from the Scottish SPCA, then ask them to wait outside and call us immediately on 03000 999 999. Our inspectors will respect your need to do this.

“If someone contacts you by any other means such as phone or email then you can always call our helpline to check if the communication is genuine.

“If anyone has any information on this incident, or would like to report a similar incident to us, they can contact our confidential helpline on 03000 999 999.”