Midlands Boiler Repair Scammer Jailed for Targeting Vulnerable Residents
A fraudulent boiler repair man who deliberately targeted vulnerable individuals across the Midlands has been sentenced to prison for his crimes. Saqib Ali, aged 24, exploited his victims to steal their hard-earned money through deceptive practices.
Deceptive Tactics and Criminal Activities
Saqib Ali operated by visiting the homes of his victims under the false pretence of fixing their boilers. Instead of providing legitimate services, he either stole cash directly or attempted to pilfer from them. The offences occurred in various locations, including Derby and Stoke-on-Trent, as confirmed by local police authorities.
In one incident in Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, a victim contacted Ali using an online advertisement for boiler repairs. The appointment was scheduled for Thursday, March 27 of the previous year. Although the victim indicated that only a single component required replacement, Ali and an accomplice began dismantling the boiler unnecessarily. When the victim requested them to stop, the men claimed they needed to use his phone to access the internet before hastily departing, stating they needed to retrieve a spare part. Subsequently, the victim discovered that hundreds of pounds had been stolen from inside his mobile phone case.
Additional Attempts and Police Investigation
Just two days later, Ali and another man targeted a second victim in Mickleover who required boiler servicing. They asked to use her phone to look up a user manual, and upon handing it over, she grew suspicious and requested identification. The pair avoided providing direct proof, instead asserting that she could view it online before leaving abruptly, citing fatigue. Fortunately, nothing was taken during this encounter.
The victims were identified as vulnerable due to factors such as advanced age, mobility issues, and cognitive impairments. Law enforcement officers meticulously reviewed CCTV footage, which helped identify the perpetrators and their vehicle. Additionally, Ali’s fingerprints were recovered from the crime scene.
Evidence and Legal Proceedings
During a search of Ali’s residence, police uncovered cash, multiple mobile phones, and paperwork related to trade work conducted under various company names. They also found a passport belonging to another individual concealed under his pillow. Ali denied all allegations, claiming he had been invited to the victims’ homes to perform legitimate work and that he was safeguarding the passport with the intention of returning it to its owner.
Despite his denials, Saqib Ali, residing on Almond Street in New Normanton, pleaded guilty to charges of burglary, theft, and handling stolen goods. He was sentenced to two years and three months in prison at Derby Crown Court on Thursday, January 22.
Police Statement and Community Impact
Temporary Detective Constable Lauren Ferguson from Derbyshire Constabulary commented on the case, stating, "Ali preyed on vulnerable victims in order to swindle them out of their hard-earned money. I would like to thank the victims for their co-operation in working with us to ensure Ali was taken off our streets so he can’t target anymore victims." This case highlights the importance of vigilance and community awareness to protect against such predatory scams targeting those most at risk.
