Police appeal for vigilance after rural burglaries across Norfolk
As several rural burglaries have taken place
Last updated 30th Oct 2022
Police are urging Norfolk residents to keep outbuildings secure and remain vigilant following a series of rural burglaries.
The appeal comes after the following incidents:
Lowestoft Road, Hopton: At around 12.30am on 24 October 2022, two suspects forced access to three outbuildings and stole power tools, a till and horse-riding clothes.
Jay Lane, Hopton: Sometime between 10.30pm on 24 October and 6.45am on 25 October, suspect/s forced access to a barn and a storage unit. Nothing was stolen.
Browston Lane, Browston: Sometime between 6pm on 23 October and 8.30am on 24 October 2022, suspect/s forced entry to a stable and stole a red quad bike.
Officers are investigating whether these crimes are linked and are keen to hear from any witnesses or anyone who has seen any suspicious activity in these areas at the times stated above.
Detective Inspector Matt Jenkins said: “With nights drawing in there are more opportunities for criminals to strike during hours of darkness. Please ensure outbuildings are secure and well-lit, alarms are activated and items are secured with locks/chains if possible.”
Officers are offering farmers and landowners in rural communities the following crime prevention advice:
Try to note down the car registration number of any suspicious vehicle, if it’s safe to do so, and report it to us.
If possible, remove all GPS kit from machines when not in use, especially if the machinery is left out overnight.
Review security at your outbuildings, as well as any building where equipment is serviced. Always keep outbuildings locked and secure.
Record the serial numbers of your equipment and take a photo of the serial number and keep it safe.
Security mark all your kit, possibly with a UV marker or permanent black marker, with the name of your location and postcode – make it as visible as possible - to make it unattractive to a potential thief.