Police appeal after series of burglaries in Gosport

Hampshire Police are appealing for witnesses after series of overnight burglaries at homes in Gosport.

Each incident took place overnight between March 8 and March 27.

The first burglary, which happened between the evening of Sunday, March 8, and Monday, March 9, took place in Willis Road.

There were then two further burglaries overnight between Wednesday, March 18 and the following morning, in Mayfield Road and Dolphin Crescent.

The final two happened between the evening of Thursday, March 26 and the next morning. Items including games consoles, guitars, laptops, jewellery and mobile phones were taken.

Officers investigating the burglaries are keen to speak with anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in these roads, or who may have CCTV footage. Or, anybody who might have seen or been offered the above listed items. Anyone with information can call 101, quoting the reference 44200112341. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Hampshire Police are also reminding people to be extra vigilant, and to adhere to the following advice:

• 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.

• 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.

• Do not leave ladders and garden tools in your garden; lock them away in your shed.

• Have an intruder alarm system installed by an approved contractor. 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.