A lorry was seized and a man was reported to prosecutors after police mounted a targeted operation against suspected rogue traders and cold callers in the Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon borough.

The day of action, reported on August 20, 2026, included vehicle checkpoints, searches and patrols in border areas and locations known for cold calling. Police also shared advice with residents about the risks posed by unsolicited callers offering services at the door.

Vehicle stops and lorry seizure

Police said officers carried out more than 30 vehicle stops and seven vehicle searches at checkpoints in the border area. A total of 15 targeted vehicle checkpoints were established, supported by proactive patrols on main arterial routes.

The operation included activity in the Keady area, where police conducted a vehicle checkpoint. Specialist units involved included the Air Support Unit, Neighbourhood Policing Teams, Local Policing Teams, ANPR Interceptors, Roads Policing, Tactical Support Group officers and specialist detectives.

One lorry was seized because police suspected it had been involved in criminal rogue trading on Tuesday, August 18. Separately, a man suspected of involvement in cold calling was reported to the Public Prosecution Service on suspicion of a number of driving-related offences.

The operation was co-ordinated by Banbridge Neighbourhood Inspector Kieran Quinn. Police officers from across the borough took part, while colleagues in An Garda Síochána carried out similar activity on the Republic of Ireland side of the border.

Cross-border operation and resident advice

The cross-border element was aimed at disrupting travelling criminals. Garda Inspector Colm McNally said several wanted people were identified and dealt with during the operation, which he described as an opportunity to work with PSNI colleagues.

Police said the operation also involved local engagement opportunities, with officers handing out leaflets and providing information to communities about cold-calling tactics and the possible risks to residents.

Inspector Quinn warned that not every unexpected caller is a rogue trader or fraudster, but said some individuals target vulnerable people by overcharging for poor-quality work or taking payment for work that is never completed. Police said some offenders may be part of Mobile Organised Crime Gangs.

Residents are advised not to let a stranger into their home, not to make advance payments and to report anything that raises suspicion to police. Officers said information should be reported as soon as possible, including when concerns relate to an older relative or friend.

Police said early reporting can help officers identify patterns, introduce additional patrols or organise dedicated operations. The force described tackling this type of criminality as a policing priority in the area and said the awareness campaign was intended to deter offenders and reduce the risk of local people becoming victims.

What residents should remember

  • Be cautious if someone arrives without having been asked to provide a service.
  • Do not allow an unsolicited caller into your home if something feels wrong.
  • Do not make advance payments for work offered at the door.
  • Report suspicious callers or activity to police as soon as possible.

The operation involved communities on both sides of the border, with police stressing that information-sharing and joint enforcement are important because travelling criminals can operate across jurisdictions.