Police warn Southsea residents after three daytime burglaries

Officers are investigating three burglaries, which they believe could be linked, in homes on Napier Road, Kent Road and Albert Road in Southsea on Wednesday and Thursday this week.

The incidents all took place during the day between 11am and 5pm and a white man wearing a grey tracksuit was seen on one occasion to climb through a first floor window.

Armed police were called to a house in Napier Road yesterday at 2.44pm to catch an offender but the person had already left and electronic equipment had been stolen.

Police have issued a warning to residents to make sure all doors and windows are locked and secure.

A spokesman said: ‘We wanted to take the opportunity to remind you of our crime prevention advice around burglaries:

‘Shut all windows and lock them when you are not using the room, at night and when you leave your property.

‘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.

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‘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.’

Anyone with information about the burglaries can phone 101 with the reference 44200329947.

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