POLICE believe that four burglaries that took place in Wokingham borough last week in a two-and-a-half hour spree are linked.
They want to speak to a white man in his early twenties who was wearing a tracksuit and was seen in the area at the time of the thefts.
The homes – in Barrett Crescent, Charwood Road, Arthur Road and Pheasant Close – were targeted by a burglar between 5.30pm and 8pm on Thursday, December 15.
In each case, the thief entered the houses and stole a number of items.
Thames Valley Police Investigating officer Sgt Stephen Kania based at Loddon Valley police station said: “We believe that these incidents may be linked and would like to speak to anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious.
“We are particularly interested in speaking to anyone who may have seen a white man, in his early twenties, wearing a tracksuit in these areas at these times or an unfamiliar dark coloured hatchback.
“Anyone with information can contact me via the non-emergency number 101 quoting reference 43160352490.”
Sgt Kania aded: “If you don’t want to speak directly to police you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.”
And Sgt Kania also encouraged Wokingham residents to look at the force’s top tips to keep properties safe during winter and also contact the police if they see anything suspicious, no matter how trivial it may seem.
Thames Valley Police’s top tips to avoid theft
- Close and lock all your doors and windows – if you have a UPVC door make sure you double lock it
- Use a timer switch to turn on your lights, TV or radio when you’re out – this will help give the impression that your home is occupied
- A pile of post is a clear sign you are away – ask a trusted friend or neighbour to remove it or use Royal Mails ‘keepsafe’ service.
- Make sure that valuables like electronic equipment, jewellery and Christmas presents are kept out of sight so as not to attract unwanted attention
- Never leave keys anywhere near the front door, including the letterbox, burglars know where to look
- Visibly and permanently marking your belongings helps the police identify them if they are stolen and can make it difficult for a thief to dispose of
- Register your valuables with Immobilise – it’s free, takes just a few minutes and, if your valuables are stolen, will help us to reunite you with your property
- Install a burglar alarm and make sure you set it every time you go out. Fitting security lighting outside your property may also help to deter criminals
- Make sure your sheds and garages are secure by fitting good quality padlocks
- Prevent easy access to the back and sides of your home by installing locked gates and remove or secure items that could be used to gain access
