RESIDENTS in Hagley and Belbroughton are being warned to be on their guard after a spate of burglaries in the villages.
A total of eight burglaries have been reported in just six weeks over March and April.
On three occasions, the raiders entered through open first floor windows. On three other occasions, they forced entry by snapping a lock.
Whilst on three occasions nothing was stolen, there were three reports of jewellery being taken and one theft and one attempted theft of a boiler.
Police said a thorough investigation was being carried out, adding at this stage it was believed the incidents were linked.
Det Insp Dave Knight said “We don’t underestimate the impact that burglary has on those who are affected.
“Whilst it is the offenders who are responsible, these incidents serve as a timely reminder to residents to keep their properties secure, particularly as the warmer weather arrives.”
He urged anyone going away or out for the day during the school holidays, to ensure their windows were closed and secure.
“Please take extra care to ensure back and patio doors are secured and consider changing your locks to ones that cannot be snapped.”
And he urged anyone able to consider installing motion sensor CCTV to do so as this could be linked directly to a mobile device.
“It is a good idea to take photos of your property and possessions, and mark valuables with SmartWater, for your own records and for insurance purposes which would make them more easily identifiable if they were ever stolen.”
And he said anyone who encountered anyone attempting to steal property or breaking into their house to not approach them but to call 999 and report it to the police.
Anyone with any information on the incidents should call Det Con Emily Jay on 01905 717707 or email her at: [email protected] to pass on details.
Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
