Pensioners in Loughrea have been warned to be on the lookout for a crafty conman who has been posing as a local doctor in order to steal from people's homes.

The bogus medic has visited several homes in the area over the past week, pretending to be visiting from Ballinasloe's Portiuncula Hospital to carry out random health checks. A spokesperson for HSE West confirmed to the Galway Independent yesterday that Portiuncula Hospital staff members do not carry out random checks and all hospital staff carry formal identification.

The man in question is thought to be in his 50s or 60s and is short with a stocky build. He is clean shaven and well-dressed, with grey hair. He is believed to be driving a silver or white saloon car.

According to Sergeant Daithí Cronin of Loughrea Garda Station, the conman is using his guise to gain access to homes with a view to theft.

"We have had reports of this man attempting to gain entry to three homes in the Loughrea area, pretending to be a member of the medical profession. We believe his motive is theft as he had already attempted to steal from these homes. We would advise people to be very careful and not to let anyone into their homes without showing some form of identification first."

Sgt Cronin went on to say that while the investigation is at a very early stage, they have already identified a suspect and appealed to anyone with information to come forward and contact the Detective Unit at Loughrea Garda Station on 091-842870.

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