By Dave GooderhamA POLICE task force set up to investigate a spate of house burglaries have warned residents in rural villages to remain vigilant.Officers in west Suffolk have issued advice to homeowners after they revealed a large number of homes, predominantly in rural villages, had been targeted.

By Dave Gooderham

A POLICE task force set up to investigate a spate of house burglaries have warned residents in rural villages to remain vigilant.

Officers in west Suffolk have issued advice to homeowners after they revealed a large number of homes, predominantly in rural villages, had been targeted.

A team of officers has now been set up to investigate the offences to try to identify suspects and determine if any of the break-ins were linked.

Police confirmed last night the task force would be looking at recent burglaries in Whepstead, Walsham-le-Willows, Stoke-by-Clare and Norton.

Detective Inspector David Rutterford, of Suffolk police, said: “Fortunately we have one of the lowest burglary rates in the country.

“As such, even the slightest increase in the number of offences is disappointing and we will be doing everything in our power to bring these offenders to justice.”

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.

“However, we need some assistance from members of the public and would urge you to check your own security and act as an extra pair of eyes and ears in your community.

“If you believe a crime just been committed, or is about to be committed, please use the 999 system to alert us immediately.”

Police urged the public to be mindful of their security and said homeowners should be particularly careful about locking doors and windows and advised them to leave a light on when they went out.

Det Insp Rutterford added: “The most important thing to remember is to always make you home look occupied.

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

As part of the drive to beat the burglars, police are issuing crime reduction postcards when out and about on patrol.

If they identify a property that looks unoccupied, they will deliver a card outlining potential risks and provide crime reduction advice.

dave.gooderham@eadt.co.uk