Officers in the Cotswolds are urging residents to be vigilant following a series of high value burglaries in the region.
Offenders stole high value items such as jewellery, watches, cash, handbags, antiques, silverware and safes from 12 properties in January.
The majority of the break-ins, which were in locations including Saintbury, Winchcombe, Icomb and Andoversford, occurred between 4.30pm and 11pm and it is believed the properties were specifically targeted.
Forensic investigations, house-to-house and CCTV enquiries have taken place at the addresses and officers are investigating whether the crimes are linked.
Proactive patrols have been taking place across the Cotswolds and enquiries into the incidents are ongoing.
Officers are now urging residents to remain vigilant, report any suspicious activity, such as people scoping out properties by driving past slowly in vehicles, and review home security arrangements.
They are also appealing for anyone with information about the burglaries who has not already spoken to police, or who has CCTV or dashcam footage which could assist the investigations, to get in touch.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Gloucestershire Police through the website, quoting incident 106 of 26 of February: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/contact/af/contact-us/us/a-crime-that-has-already-been-reported/
Call 999 if a crime is happening at the time, a suspect is nearby, if someone is in immediate danger or there is a risk of serious damage to a property.
Officers would like to remind residents of the protective measures that can be taken to help ensure homes and outbuildings are as safe as possible.
Homeowners are advised to install a ‘WIDE’ combination of security devices to help protect your home, shed or garage from burglary as well as ensuring that back gates are secure.
A ‘WIDE’ combination includes:
- Window locks
- Indoor lights on timer switches
- Double door locks or deadbolts
- External lights on a sensor
Officers also advise:
- Storing your key fob and any spares inside a car key signal blocker pouch such as a faraday pouch or box.
- Storing your car keys away from the front or back door.
- Ensuring high value goods are not visible from outside.
More information on ways to protect your home can be found by visiting: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/police-forces/gloucestershire-constabulary/areas/gloucestershire/campaigns/burglary/