Wiltshire man arrested after series of high value gold burglaries

Wiltshire Police have made an arrest as part of its on-going investigations in to a series of High Value Gold burglaries across the whole county.

Wiltshire Police has been been working closely with Avon and Somerset and Thames Valley Police who have also seen similar types of burglaries;  Operation Sirius was set up as a dedicated multi-force response to High Value Gold burglaries.

T/Det Sgt Anthony King, Wiltshire Police, said:  “On Tuesday 28 March we arrested a 22-year-old man from the Semington area in relation to offences committed in the Swindon and Reading areas.  He has been released on police bail pending further lines of enquiry.
"Offenders of this type of crime are prepared to travel large distances to commit these burglaries - they are very well organised travelling across borders, using stolen vehicles on cloned number plates.

"Wiltshire Police is committed to using all available tactics to catch those responsible.

"We have been in close liaison with forces nationally, sharing information and this is proving to be extremely productive.

"We've made a number of arrests in the past few weeks as a direct result of proactive and intelligence led policing, and with work ongoing we are confident of more positive action in the very near future.

"I would like to remind members of the public to remain vigilant - if they see anything suspicious or anyone acting suspiciously in their neighbourhood - please report it to us.
"Many of these offenders use high performance cars; please be mindful of this if you see such a vehicle driving around your area.  Again if in doubt call 101.

Homeowners should also consider the following advice to help keep their homes and property safe:

• Keep all your valuables in a safe and secure location - consider fitting a good quality safe.
• Make sure you double-lock any UPVC doors by lifting the handle and locking it at all times.
• Check all doors are locked and all windows, including those upstairs, are secure before you go out or go to bed.
• Use timer switches on lamps to give the impression somebody is at home or keep a light on in the evening if you go out.
• Consider installing alarms and ‘dusk to dawn’ security lighting.
• Consider the installation a CCTV camera outside your property
• Keep photographic records of all your jewellery.
• When leaving the property remove keys from locks and place out of sight.
• Please find our "Are your valuables safe?" leaflet attached.

For more security advice visit our website:  www.wiltshire.police.uk or call 101.