Appeal for witnesses and CCTV following attempted burglaries and attempted theft from motor vehicles in Hedge End and Botley

Officers are appealing for witnesses and CCTV footage following a series of attempted burglaries and attempted theft from motor vehicles in the Hedge End and Botley areas.

The incidents happened between 2.30am and 5am on Sunday, 20 June in Shafford Meadows, Hedge End and Sovereign Drive, Blossom Close and Broad Oak Street in Botley.

Two men were seen attempting to gain entry to three properties and two cars by trying door handles.

One of the vehicles, a Range Rover Sport, was broken into and an I-pod was stolen. The I-pod was subsequently located and returned to its owner.

No entry was gained to any of the properties or the other car.

The first man is described as being white, around 20 years old, of slim build and approximately 5ft 9 inches tall. He was wearing a grey Nike tracksuit with Nike writing on and an emblem on the leg, black gloves, surgical facemask and white trainers.

The second man is described as being white, around 20 years old, slim build and approximately 5ft 9 inches. He was wearing a grey tracksuit, dark coloured baseball cap, chequered scarf used as a face covering and dark coloured trainers with reflective patches on the tongue and heel.

Officers are asking people who live in these areas to check any privately owned CCTV. It may have captured something that could help our investigation.

We are also encouraging anyone else who has been affected to report it to us, so we can build up a bigger picture of the areas being targeted and when.

If you recognise the men in the descriptions or have any information or privately owned CCTV that may assist our investigation, please call us on 101 quoting 44210241984.

Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A 21-year-old man of no fixed abode has been arrested on suspicion of theft from a motor vehicle, possession of Class B drugs, assault by beating and two attempted burglary offences. He has been questioned by officers and released under investigation while our enquiries continue.

Vehicle and home owners are urged to take a look at our crime prevention page for advice on how to keep your property and vehicles safe:  https://www.hampshire.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/