Appeal for information after firearms incident in Bootle

MERSEYSIDE Police Detectives are appealing for information following a an incident in Bootle, that left a 18 year old with minor injuries consistent with a firearms discharge.  We are told by Police that:- "The man had been walking along a canal bank, close to Cooksons Bridge, near Swifts Lane, at about 10pm, on Sunday, 27 March 2016, when he was assaulted by 2 males, dressed in dark clothing." We are told that they are said to have knocked him to the floor.​​​ When he got up and started to run off, the victim heard a loud bang and felt a pain in his leg. Merseyside Police added that:- "When he arrived home he discovered he had minor injuries consistent with a firearms discharge, but only presented himself at Hospital, on Monday, 28 March 2015."

Police have said that the motive for the assault is not clear at this stage and CCTV and forensic opportunities are being explored in and around the local area, that the incident took place in.  Detectives are now appealing for anyone who was in the vicinity of Swifts Lane or saw anyone running away from the area following the incident to come forward. If you have any information, call MSOC Gun crime hotline on:- 0800 230 0600 or the confidential Crimestoppers line on:- 0800 555 111.

Fraud warning following door step selling of mobility scooter in Southport area

MERSEYSIDE Police have issued an appeal after a 98 year old woman was victim of an alleged fraud, in Southport, and they have also told the public to be extra vigilant! We can report that a 45 year man has been arrested on suspicion of 'Fraud by False Representation' in relation to this alleged offence.

This incident is reported to have taken place at around 5.15pm, on Tuesday, 29 March 2016. Merseyside Police have told us that the victim is reported to have been at home, in Alexandra Road, when a man is believed to have attended the address, claiming to be acting on behalf of a mobility scooter company. He is said to have stated that the company was recalling her scooter and is said to have then taken it. It's alleged that the man left a courtesy scooter in its place, which he is then alleged to have attempted to sell to the victim!

D/C Darrell Rotherham from Sefton CID said:- "This was a despicable attempt to defraud an elderly lady. Offenders like this deliberately target the most vulnerable in our community in their own homes, a place where they have a right to feel safe and secure. I would also appeal to people to keep an eye on any elderly and vulnerable neighbours and family members. If you notice anyone suspicious in the area, always call the Police or contact your Local Neighbourhood Policing Team for more advice."

There are a number of steps everyone can take to help prevent this type of crime and they include:-

► Do not open your door if you are unsure who the caller is. Always make sure you know who visitors are by asking to see their identification.

► Never let people into your property if you don't know them.

► Always keep the key chain on the door whilst talking to callers and always check their ID before letting them into your home. Genuine callers won't mind you doing this. If callers haven't got valid identification, don't let them in.

► Bogus callers often pretend to be someone official, for example, from a utility company or the water board. They will also try to distract people by asking for a drink of water or if they can use the toilet. Remember "if in doubt, keep them out."

► Remember to close and lock the back door before you answer the front door. It's a good idea to have a viewer or spy hole and a stout chain fitted to all the external doors to the property.

► Don't keep large quantities of cash at home. It's better in the bank where it's safe.

► If someone asks for your help (for example, if they want to make a telephone call or claim to have lost a ball in your garden) always ask a friend or neighbour, or someone else you trust, for help.

Anyone with information on this or any similar offences are being asked to contact Sefton CID on:- (0151) 7773059 on the non emergency:- 101 number or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on:- 0800 555 111. If you feel in danger and a suspected bogus caller has just been, call Merseyside Police on:- 999.