Police appeal for information after spate of burglaries in Cheltenham

Police investigating a series of burglaries in Cheltenham this month are appealing to the public for information.

Officers received reports that unknown offenders had entered two properties on the same street in Shurdington and a further two properties in Up Hatherley on Saturday 4 October.

A break-in was then reported in Up Hatherley on Monday 13 October where a laptop and bag were stolen between midnight and 8am.

Two further reports were then received of burglaries taking place at addresses in Leckhampton on Tuesday 14 October where silverware and credit cards were stolen from one of the properties.

Officers believe the break-ins are linked due to the methods used by the suspects to gain entry to each property.

They have reviewed CCTV footage and have conducted house-to-house enquiries and are now appealing for anyone with information about the burglaries, and who has not already spoken to police, to get in touch.

Anyone who has any further CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage which could assist the investigations is also asked to contact police.

Details can be provided to police online by completing the following form and quoting incident 462 of 4 October: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/

Police are asking people to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity such as people scoping out properties by driving past slowly in vehicles.

As the clocks go back next week and the evenings get darker, officers would also like to remind residents of the protective measures that can be taken to help ensure homes and outbuildings are as safe as possible.

Homeowners are advised to install a 'WIDE' combination of security devices to help protect your home, shed or garage from burglary as well as ensuring that back gates are secure.

Burglars look for opportunities and will seek out empty-looking homes, where they can’t be seen by neighbours and where they can get in and out quickly. Take away their opportunities by installing the ‘WIDE’ combination of security devices and by carrying out the following actions:

A 'WIDE' combination includes:

• Window locks
• Indoor lights on timer switches
• Double door locks or deadbolts
• External lights on a sensor

Officers also advise:

• Storing your key fob and any spares inside a car key signal blocker pouch such as a faraday pouch or box.
• Storing your car keys away from the front or back door.
• Ensuring high value goods are not kept in your car and/or on display.

More information on ways to protect your home can be found by visiting: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/police-forces/gloucestershire-constabulary/areas/gloucestershire/campaigns/burglary/