Witness appeal following report of burglary in Blackwater

We are appealing for witnesses and information following a report of burglary in Blackwater.

Between 7.55pm and 8.05pm on Saturday 23 September, four men gained access to a property on Kingsway by forcing a rear patio door window open.

Once inside the address, the men noticed the occupant was home and have immediately fled the scene. Nothing was reported stolen.

Officers have since launched an investigation and are appealing for witnesses.

Were you in the area the time? Do you have any doorbell or dashcam footage that shows four suspicious men on Kingsway during the times mentioned above?

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting 44230389103.

You can also submit information via the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/contact/af/contact-us-forms/provide-more-information-to-be-added-to-a-crime-report/

We would also like to take this opportunity to remind residents in Hart and Rushmoor of some steps you can take to secure your home and property:

• Shut all windows and lock them when you are not using the room, at night and when you leave your property
• Lock all front and rear doors at night and when you are out. If you have a UPVC door with a multi-point lock ensure you lift the handle and lock it with the key. Remove the key after the door or window is locked
• Put all car keys and other keys out of sight and not in reach of windows and letterboxes; it doesn't take much for the keys to be hooked through the letterbox. While placing your keys in a Faraday pouch can block signals meaning would-be-opportunists can’t copy your ‘keyless’ car key and gain entry to your vehicle
• Leave a light on so your home looks occupied if you are going out for the evening. If you head out while it is still daylight and won't be back till after dark then timer switches (available from most DIY stores) can be useful for turning your lights, radios and other appliances on at a set time before you get back
• Ensure side gates are locked to prevent access to the rear of the property
• Have an intruder alarm system installed. Ensure a visible alarm box is attached to the outside of your home. Also consider fitting security lighting
• Use door chains and spy holes to give you extra security if someone knocks on your door. Never be afraid to turn people away. If you have concerns about anyone who has come to your door call the police
• Record the details of your property such as serial numbers for electronic goods on the Immobilise website (https://www.immobilise.com/)