'˜Be vigilant,' urge police after a surge in burglaries in North West Milton Keynes

Since Wednesday February 8, there have been 22 linked residential burglaries across a number of areas of the north-west part of the city which officers have linked via similar methods of entry – forcing open a rear window or door using a tool of some description – and similar times of day, between around midday and 8pm.

Patrols have been stepped up in the affected areas, which are the Wolverton/Wolverton Mill/Stantonbury/New Bradwell/Oakridge Park areas of Milton Keynes. Officers are also dropping crime prevention advice leaflets in the affected streets.

Det Sgt Simon Mountain, based in Local CID at Milton Keynes police station, is urging residents to be vigilant and to report anything suspicious they see in their neighbourhoods: “I would urge residents to ensure they take steps to secure their homes, following a recent rise in burglary offences,” he said.

“Since Wednesday (Feb 8) there have been numerous reports of burglary and attempted burglary, particularly throughout the afternoon and into the evening.

“Witnesses have reported seeing two boys aged between 16 and 17 wearing joggers and hoodies who often have their faces covered.

“We are advising residents to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity.”

Supt Gez Chiariello, local policing area commander for Milton Keynes, said: “My officers are working hard to identify those responsible and I would urge the public to remain vigilant and to do all they can to keep their homes secure and deter burglars.”

The following crime prevention advice can help keep you home secure:

•Before checking the locks on your front, back, patio, French window and garage door, have a good look at the framework around the doors. It should be securely fixed and in good condition, otherwise good doors or locks are not effective.

•Check the condition of the door, including thickness. Doors must be at least 44mm thick for a 5-lever mortice lock to be fitted. If the door is too thin, then a rim deadlock should be fitted.

•Check your windows from the inside and outside. Whether the window is wood or metal, you will find an inexpensive window lock to fit each type. Make sure that valuables are not visible from the outside.

Help keep your home secure by following the crime prevention advice on the Thames Valley Police website.

If you saw anything suspicious in the areas affected, or if you have any other information that could assist with the police investigation, contact police via the 24-hour Thames Valley Police Enquiry Centre on 101. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

In an emergency, always dial 999.