Fair Trading Minister Virginia Judge today warned consumers in outer Sydney areas to watch out for Bitumen Bandits offering to lay asphalt on driveways.

Ms Judge said Fair Trading and NSW Police are investigating reports of itinerant traders scamming locals at Luddenham, Cranebrook and Kenthurst with cheap bitumen laying offers.

“Fair Trading has operational people in the field working closely with police to track the movements of these crooks,” she said.

“Bitumen Bandits generally target older, vulnerable people in rural and regional areas and have been subject to ongoing Fair Trading investigations.”

Ms Judge said Fair Trading had issued four public warnings last year and one in January this year when the con men appeared on the South Coast near Nowra.

“The bandits use a seemingly plausible reason to gain people’s confidence and in the worst cases lie in wait for people to leave their homes,” she said.

“They will often say they have leftover product from a local council or Roads and Traffic Authority job and can do a good price. They also ask for cash payment.

“They are even known to keep a watch on homeowners to see when they leave their property. When they do, the bandits will turn up with a large group and start laying bitumen without consent.”

Ms Judge said bitumen bandits often attempt to bully residents into paying for substandard work.

“After completing the work, the bandits quickly leave the area and consumers are unable to contact them or obtain refunds or warranties.”

Minister for Police Michael Daley said it was important for people who are the victims of Bitumen Bandits to contact Police.

“The assistance of the community is an invaluable resource for local Police when it comes to arresting criminals of this nature,” he said.

“They could face up to five years in prison if convicted under the Crimes Act.”

Consumers should contact Fair Trading on 13 32 20 and their local police if they are approached by these Bitumen Bandits.

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