By Liz HearnshawDETECTIVES are appealing for help to trace a man who may be responsible for as many as 30 burglaries of rural homes.Over the past three months, jewellery, lap-top computers and digital cameras have been stolen from houses in villages across west Suffolk and a team of officers is investigating them to see if any are linked.

By Liz Hearnshaw

DETECTIVES are appealing for help to trace a man who may be responsible for as many as 30 burglaries of rural homes.

Over the past three months, jewellery, lap-top computers and digital cameras have been stolen from houses in villages across west Suffolk and a team of officers is investigating them to see if any are linked.

A computer-generated image has now been released of a man whom police are keen to trace in connection with the burglaries.

Detective Constable Mike Blayney, from the investigation team, said: “In the region of 30 houses have been targeted over the past three months and this is simply not acceptable.

“Fortunately, we have one of the lowest burglary rates in the country. As such, an increase in the number of offences is disappointing and we will be doing everything in our power to bring those responsible to justice.

“However, we need some assistance from members of the public and would urge you to check your own security, act as an extra pair of eyes and ears in your community and take a close look at this image.”

He added: “Those committing these offences seem to be targeting houses in village locations in the afternoon or early evenings.

“It is likely that they will be using a vehicle of some description and we would therefore urge you to contact us if you see any suspicious vehicles or people in your village.

“Large quantities of jewellery and small electrical items, such as lap-top computers and digital cameras, have been taken in the series of burglaries. As such we would like to hear from anyone who is offered such items in suspicious circumstances as they may be stolen goods.”

Police have also advised homeowners to follow some simple crime prevention advice in the light of the spate of burglaries.

These tips include locking doors and windows, leaving lights on when the house is unoccupied and making sure all ladders are shut away.

“The most important thing to remember is to always make you home look occupied,” said Det Con Blayney.

“Research has indicated that 84% of offenders will not attempt to break into a house if there are any signs of life from within.”

Anyone with information about the burglaries should contact Suffolk police on 01473 613500.

liz.hearnshaw@eadt.co.uk