Aberdeen families targeted by jewellery thieves
Police in Aberdeen are investigating after cash and jewellery worth £70,000 was were stolen from homes across the city in recent months.
The homes of 14 Chinese and Asian families were targeted - Detective Inspector Fionnuala McPhail said: “While the last thing I want to do is cause any fear or alarm to people living in these particular communities, I must ask the public to be vigilant while our investigations continue. I must also stress that incidents of house-breakings across North East Division are at an all-time low with detection rates extremely high - however as further incidents of this specific nature are being reported to us, and with a common theme of the items being stolen, it's crucial we make this appeal today to gather as much information as possible."
People living in the Chinese community have predominantly reported incidents to the Police, however other areas of the Asian community have also been affected. A dedicated team of CID officers has been carrying out extensive enquiries which includes liaising with other forces nationwide. Work has also been ongoing with Safer Communities and Crime Reduction officers to offer security advice and information in relation to these particular break-ins.
DI McPhail added: “We are following several positive lines of enquiry as a result of our investigations so far however I would still urge anyone with information to contact Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 if you would prefer to remain anonymous. In some cases we have received information about a black Audi A3 being used by those responsible so I would ask anyone with information about suspicious activity involving such a vehicle to let us know. We are also aware of appeals in recent months issued by another Police division in Scotland and other forces in the UK where similar crimes have been reported, therefore we are also liaising with these colleagues to maximise our intelligence.
"I would urge anyone with high-value jewellery or large amounts of cash to avoid keeping them in your house and to take relevant security measures to keep them safe. If you have to store your valuables at home, store them securely and out of sight. While securing your home doesn’t need to cost the earth there is no denying that having alarms and private CCTV assists should the worst happen. It could also be of benefit to take photographs of any high-value items you own as this will assist greatly should they be recovered. Police Scotland’s website has further useful information - http://www.scotland.police.uk/keep-safe/home-and-personal-property/
“Finally if you see anyone acting suspiciously in your community, let us know. There is no harm in providing information to the Police in good faith and I would ask you to keep an eye on your neighbour’s homes if they are out. Also be wary of cold callers and ensure you verify that they are legitimate tradespeople. If you are suspicious in any way at all, do not let them into your home and report the matter."