POLICE officers are warning people to be vigilant after a spate of house burglaries in Ipswich.

Since the start of October there have been 11 house burglaries in Ipswich - five yesterday.

While people have been arrested in connection with several of the incidents police officers are urging people to take simple precautions to ensure they are not targeted.

Detectives continue to investigate a number of the burglaries in a bid to bring the offenders to justice.

Detective Sergeant Darren Bruce of Ipswich CID said: “We are working hard to collect evidence against those responsible for these burglaries in Ipswich as well as carrying out extra patrols to catch them in the act but we need your help to stop those responsible.

“It is quite simple – if you see anything out-of-the ordinary please call us immediately using 999.

“The misery and distress caused by burglars cannot be underestimated. We are committed to finding those responsible and putting them before the courts – please help us do this.”

Thieves targeted a home in Gippeswyk Avenue between 7.30am and 5pm, stealing jewellery and money.

Between 7.45am and 8.55pm another home in Speedwell Road was broken into and jewellery and money was taken from inside.

In Kesteven Road, between noon and 4pm two flats were targeted, the theives making off with jewellery, a Canon digital camera, a black Toshiba 23ins flat screen TV and money.

And in Martin Road between 6.40pm and 11.20pm another house was broken into and a black HP laptop, a white iPod, a digital camera and two watches were stolen.

Police officers are encouraging people to lock doors and windows to make it harder for burglars to gain entry to their homes.

They have advised people leave lights on a timer switch to make it look as if someone is at home and to make sure valuable items including keys are out of view, removing the temptation for people to break in.

A spokesman for Suffolk police said: “If you see anyone acting suspiciously, please try to note the description of the person you are suspicious of, including clothing, and then contact police immediately using 999.”

Anyone with information about any of these burglaries is asked to call Ipswich CID on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.