Police in Basingstoke are appealing for information after a series of burglaries and thefts over a eight-day period.
Between September 15 and September 23, there have been nine incidents across the South Ham area of Basingstoke.
Offender(s) have entered homes using an implement pushed through the letterbox to open the front door. Once inside, they have stolen predominantly handbags and wallets.
On several occasions they have been disturbed and have run off. Two men have also been seen rifling through purses and handbags in the area.
The first man is described as white, aged 16 or 17, of a slim build with short dark brown cropped hair. His about 5ft 4ins tall and was wearing a black hooded-jacket with the hood up, black tracksuit bottoms and trainers.
The second man is described as white, aged 18 or 19, about 5ft 8ins tall and of a slim build. He was wearing tracksuit bottoms and trainers and carrying a rucksack.
PC Jon Hayes said: “I would like to hear from anyone who has seen anything suspicious in the area or men matching the descriptions.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to remind people to make sure their homes are secure and double lock their doors at night to prevent burglaries like this taking place.”
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Please see the advice below to prevent people becoming a victim of burglary.
There are certain measures you can take to reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim yourself, such as:
• Don’t leave curtains/blinds open, and don’t leave valuables on show.
• If you are going away, consider asking a neighbour or friend to check your house regularly.
• Consider purchasing timer switches for lamps or a radio to give the appearance that someone is home.
• Consider installing an alarm system and ensure the alarm box is clearly visible.
• Don’t leave keys in doors, remove them and keep them close at hand but out of sight where you can easily find them in case of emergency.
• Don’t leave your house unattended with windows open and unlocked – even if it is for a minute.
• If you are in the garden or upstairs, make sure your downstairs doors and windows are closed.
• Never leave a key under a doormat or on string through the letterbox.
Report suspicious activity to the police on 101 or anonymously via the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111. For further advice please contact your local Safer Neighbourhoods Team on the details below, or visit www.hampshire.police.uk and type in your postcode to find your local policing pages.
