Organised Crime Groups targeting Dorset Asian communities in gold thefts
Dorset Police have issued a warning to the Asian community following a spate of gold thefts
Dorset Police are urging Asian communities to be on high alert following an increase in high-value gold theft.
Organised Crime Groups have been seen smashing windows and ransacking houses to find generational family gold.
In 2023, there were 13 incidents totalling more than £330,000 in stolen gold but just between January and March this year, there were already eight.
Detective Inspector, Andy Brix told us: “Gold has gone up in value greatly over recent years and we're seeing organised crime groups targeting people that are likely to have Asian gold.
“These groups travel distances across the country to commit this type of crime probably because of its high gold content.”
Criminals then sell it on through various methods, melting it down "to make it unidentifiable" using devices bought online.
The 22 or 24 carat gold is often bought as gifts in Asian families, and passed down through generations, holding significant sentimental value.
Detective Inspector Brix pleads with criminals to stop: “Burglaries can have a devastating effect on homeowners and any burglary victim feels a real sense of violation after having their house entered and items stolen.
“Asian gold is often handed down over generations and is of great sentimental value making this type of criminality all the worse.”
Dorset Police assure us they are working with Asian communities and are doing everything they can to remain vigilant.
Detective Inspector Brix added: “I would advise all homeowners to look at their home security, ensure their doors are locked, they have fitted window locks and consider security lighting or fitting a burglar alarm.
“All residents should also keep an eye on their neighbours and look out for any strange vehicles or people loitering around.”