Bogus charity collector steals 'sizeable' amount from two elderly people in Westmeath

Gardai have launched an investigation after a person posing as a volunteer collecting money for Ukraine stole “sizeable amounts of money” from two older people in the Mullingar area in recent days.

A garda spokesperson said that a female, whom they described as "a foreign national", gained entry into the people's houses under false pretences and after distracting the occupants made off with their cash.

The spokesperson also urged the public to be “extra careful and vigilant” if an unknown person calls to their door and that if they witness anything suspicious to call Mullingar Garda Station directly on (044) 938 4000.