Police are urging residents in Penrith and the surrounding Eden area to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity as detectives investigate a spate of burglaries.
Over the weekend and in recent days, there have been reports of burglaries where a suspect or suspects have gained entry to properties and taken cash, jewellery and watches.
Police would like to remind residents to be vigilant, ensuring doors and windows are locked overnight and when houses are not occupied, to ensure CCTV or video doorbells are working correctly if installed and to consider leaving lights on when possible.
Officers would also encourage anyone in the area who has seen anything suspicious or has captured any suspicious activity on CCTV or video doorbells to report this to police.
High visibility and plain clothed patrols have been stepped up in the Eden area to deter offenders and prevent further burglaries and a team of detectives are investigating all reports and carrying out enquiries.
Anyone with any information relating to reports of burglaries in the area should contact 101 or report online via www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it
You can also contact independent charity Crimestoppers totally anonymously on 0800 555 111.
What can you do to protect your home?
Some simple, basic tips include:
- Lock doors and windows before you go out and ensure that your house and keys are secure.
- Remove keys from locks and keep them out of reach, not on a hall table, hiding any vehicle keys in a secure place.
- Ensure side gates and sheds are locked with a good quality lock.
- Keep cash and valuables locked away safe or well hidden.
- Consider increasing your security with good quality locks, CCTV and chains.
The reports are being investigated under Operation Themis – Cumbria Police’s ongoing response to and focus on burglaries.