Burglary gang targets villages (From Daily Echo)

Burglary gang targets villages

6:00am Tuesday 28th August 2012 in Crime By Chris Yandell, Chief Reporter, New Forest

PROPERTY worth thousands of pounds has been stolen by a gang of thieves targeting homes near a Hampshire commuter route.

Police are linking a series of break-ins that have all occurred at properties in Dibden Purlieu and other villages bordering the busy A326.

Jewellery and other items including an air pistol have been stolen from houses since the start of the month.

Lime Walk in Dibden Purlieu has been targeted twice, with both raids taking place within three days.

The gang has also struck in nearby Holbury, where two homes became crime scenes within 24 hours.

The long list of stolen property includes expensive computer equipment and items of great sentimental value, including wedding rings.

Several pensioners are among the victims but police say there is no evidence that elderly residents are being singled out by the gang.

The first theft occurred in West Road, Dibden Purlieu, on August 2 and has so far been followed by seven other burglaries or attempted break-ins.

All the properties have been targeted during daylight hours when the occupants are out.

Detectives are urging people living in the Dibden Purlieu area to be vigilant and ensure that their property is secure at all times.

They are also appealing for assistance in catching the culprits before they strike again.

A police spokesman said: “We would like to appeal to the public to help us |find out who is committing these |burglaries.

“We’d like to encourage the community in the surrounding area to be vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to the police.”

Anyone with information should ring Lyndhurst CID on 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.