THIEVES thought to be teenagers targeted three homes in Wokingham at the end of last month and police have launched an appeal to trace them.
This morning, Thames Valley Police released information about two burglaries and one foiled attempt which are believed to be linked and took place on Sunday, October 28 at some point between 3pm and 6.15pm.
In the first raid – echoing similar thefts that took place across the borough at the beginning of the year – the thieves gained access to the property through the rear. The property was searched upstairs and items of jewellery stolen.
The second raid took place on Webb Court around 6.30pm. Police said that the thieves attempted to get into the home via the front, but were disturbed and failed.
The force added that two boys were seen leaving the property and got into a parked car before driving away.
And just a few minutes later, the third raid took place on Webb Court between 6.45pm and 7.30pm.
Police said that the victim returned home to find the property had been searched. There was no sign of forced entry. A handbag, watch and set of keys were stolen.
The first offender is described as a white boy, aged between 16 and 18, around 6ft tall with slim build and was wearing dark clothing.
The second offender is also described as a white boy, aged between 16 and 18, around 5ft 8ins and of stocky build.
Investigating officer, Detective Inspector Mike Bettington from the Complex Crime team at Loddon Valley police station, said: “I am appealing for any witnesses who were in these areas at the time and may have seen or heard anything unusual.
“Anyone with information should contact Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting reference 43180329304.
“Residents can reduce the risk of becoming a victim of burglary by taking a few simple steps:
- When going out, remember to light up your home using timer switches or a TV simulator.
- Don’t leave valuables or cash on display and store your house and car keys away from your letterbox.
- Move bins away from any side gates to prevent easy access into your property.
- Lock any tools away to prevent them being used to break into your home.
- Consider fitting a motion activated external light or installing a CCTV system.
- Finally, mark your valuables using a UV pen and register them on the national property register at www.immobilise.com.
“If you see a burglary in progress, or a burglary has occurred very recently, you should always report it by calling 999.”
More burglaries prevention advice is available on the Thames Valley Police website at: https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/residential-burglary/
