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Latest news in Yorkshire: Published March 19, 2019 03:15:26 PM
Police patrols are being stepped up, and residents asked to check their
security, after several reports of high-performance cars being stolen
during two-in-one burglaries across Barnsley.
Two-in-one burglaries involve suspects breaking into a property for the
sole purpose of taking car keys. They typically occur at properties with
high value or rare vehicles on the drive, as Detective Inspector Kate
Leake explains.
“We have unfortunately seen a real spike in this type of burglary in
Barnsley in recent months and I can fully appreciate how frustrating and
distressing this must be for the victims experiencing this crime.
“The individuals participating in this criminality appear to be quite
sophisticated in their methods, with our officers receiving numerous
reports of door locks being melted or burned out – rather than your
typical ‘smash and grab’ type tactics.
“I want to reassure the public that we’re taking this matter incredibly
seriously and are working hard with neighbouring forces to identify the
offenders and work together to stop this issue.
“We have regular patrols in affected areas and have the support of
specialist colleagues from across the force to cover the road networks
in and out of Barnsley.
“With that in mind, there are a number of things that you can do to
reduce the chances of becoming a victim of a two-in-one burglary.
“Review your home security, including where you keep your car keys in
the evening. We absolutely do NOT recommend taking your keys to bed with
you, as this could place you at additional risk should someone choose to
break in.
“We would recommend investing in a key safe, or storing the keys
somewhere out of sight and not immediately within reach of the door –
try and think of somewhere a burglar wouldn’t!
“Given that the recent incidents have involved burning through locks,
consider installing supplementary smoke alarms near to PVC doors that
can act as an immediate warning should someone try to break into your
house. These are available at minimal cost.
“We’d also suggest investing in the most simple vehicle security method
– a steering wheel lock. They’re very difficult to break and are an
obvious deterrent to anyone thinking of stealing your vehicle.
“If it isn’t feasible to purchase a CCTV system, consider other measures
like security lighting or burglar alarms, items that would deter anyone
wanting to break into your property.”
Officers from the local neighbourhood teams will be conducting high
visibility police patrols, are available to survey your security
arrangements, and offer impartial advice on keeping your home, property
and family safe.
Further information on your Neighbourhood Team can be found on our
homepage.
DI Leake added: “As part of our proactive patrols, we’ll be visiting
houses that have valuable vehicles on the driveway and offering crime
prevention advice. I would like to reassure the public that South
Yorkshire Police are doing everything we can to protect the people of
Barnsley and prosecute those responsible.
“I would urge residents to report suspicious activity to the police via
the South Yorkshire Police website, 101 (or 999 if a crime is in
progress). Even the smallest piece of information – however seemingly
insignificant – could prove crucial in bringing criminals to justice.
“If you have any concerns or you have any information about those that
may be committing this crime, please contact us.”
You can call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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[tags burglaries, burglar, barnsley]