The Met has kicked off its annual burglary clamp-down with a warning that householders who fail to lock their doors and windows risk being a victim of the season’s 25% increase in offences.
Around a third of burglaries attended by the Met show no sign of forced entry, suggesting the culprit gained access via an unlocked door or window.
The force says householders can reduce the risk of becoming a victim by ensuring all doors and windows are properly locked with a key and keeping valuables out of sight and out of reach.
Households are also advised not to advertise the purchase expensive items such as new TVs and computers by putting their packaging outside the home.
Today’s advice forms part of Operation Bumblebee, the Met’s annual clampdown on residential burglary.
Officers will take part in high visibility patrols in burglary hot spots and, where burglaries do take place, give advice to neighbours to help prevent repeat offences in the same street or building.
In addition, specialist “manhunt teams” will be used to track down “the most evasive wanted burglary suspects.”
Commander Simon Letchford said: “Burglaries in London are at the lowest level in forty years and we have introduced a range of pro-active measures and use innovative technology to tackle offences, but there are still too many people falling victim to burglary and there is more to do.
“Help us to further prevent burglary by safeguarding your property and valuables.
“Think like a burglar and you are likely to notice that your home and possessions are vulnerable. By following our simple crime prevention advice this winter, you can reduce the chances of it happening to you.”
