Witness appeal after spate of burglaries in Winchester

Officers are appealing for witnesses after a spate of burglaries in Winchester.

 

Four address on St Faiths Road were targeted between 9pm on 30 November and 7am on 1 December.

 

Entry was forced into sheds at each address, and bicycles were stolen in two of the burglaries.

 

We will be in the area conducting enquiries, but are also asking the public for any information that may assist.

 

Were you in the area at the time, or did you notice something or someone suspicious? Perhaps you have dash cam or doorbell footage that may be of interest?

 

Anyone with information is asked to phone 101 with reference 44210482799. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111.

 

We would also like to take this opportunity to share some advice that could keep your shed or garage safe. 

• In these burglaries the bikes that were secured by heavy-duty locks and shed shackle systems were not stolen. Secure your bike to the ground or a lockable stand within a locked shed or garage. 

• It’s always worth draping an old sheet or blanket over the top of mowers or bikes to keep them covered from view.

• Although it might sound like stating the obvious, never leave your garage or shed door unlocked if you’re not around.

• Property marking your items is advisable and some tools can be painted with your name or postcode. Forensic marking is also an option.

• Consider a battery-operated shed alarm. They look low key but they respond to movement or door contact with an extremely loud siren.

• Think like a thief - Take a look at your shed and consider how you would break in. It’s worth having a good padlock on the door with no exposed screws. Pay attention to hinges, as these are sometimes easily removable. If you have windows then these could be vulnerable unless they’re secured with wire mesh or grills. And keep it locked at all times.