Spate of garage break-ins in Durrington
Tools were the only things taken during the incidents
There has been a series of break-ins at garages in Durrington.
During the night of Tuesday 23rd February and the morning of Wednesday 24th, several were broken into on Birchwood Drive.
A "considerable" amount of power tools were taken during the burglaries.
Wiltshire Police are now issuing an appeal in hope that someone may have witnessed them take place.
PC Juliet Cox said:
"These incidents, which all follow a similar pattern, suggest that the unknown offenders were looking for high value tools that would prove easy to sell on further.
Entry was gained by locks and padlocks being interfered with.
We would like to remind residents to ensure their garages, sheds and outhouses are secured properly.
If you heard or saw anything suspicious in the area at this time and date. please contact us on 101 quoting crime reference number 54210020754.
Alternatively, you can report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."
PREVENTION ADVICE
In order to stop people becoming victims to this type of crime, Wiltshire Police have issued the following advice:
- Make sure you have approved locks or bolts to all doors and windows.
- Never leave a spare key in a hiding place like in a plant pot or letter box - a thief knows all the hiding places.
- Register all serial numbers from electrical items, tools and garden equipment with Immobilise.com the free national property register.
- Use a timer to set lights to mimic your usual activity when you are not at home.
- Do not open the door to anyone you don't know or are not expecting. Always check by using a spy-hole or look through a window. Don't trust an ID card.
- Trim back any plants and hedges at the front of your property to no higher than one meter to remove hiding places.
- Always report any suspicious activity, note any vehicle registrations, descriptions of persons involved and direction of travel.
- Consider installing a monitored burglar alarm, and only use a company that is registered or certified with the NSI or the SSIAB.
- Make sure that you have up to date contents insurance.
- If you have any information about offenders or see something suspicious, please call Wiltshire Police on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. In an emergency dial 999.