Burglars using code to target households
HOMEOWNERS are being warned over markings used by criminals looking to break into houses.
The alert has been sparked amid fears burglars are using a code to try to work out which houses are left empty and which cars are left unattended during the daytime by owners.
Police are stepping up patrols amid fears Tamworth homeowners are being targeted.
High-performance cars and properties are being eyed by robbers, with Staffordshire Police urging locals to be on their guard.
Two cars were sprayed with symbols in Seaton and Wilnecote Lane.
Police now believe it could be related to the criminal underground.
The marks, dubbed the “Da Pinci Code” by forces across Britain, are believed to be made by would-be thieves to indicate if the house is vulnerable, revealing who is living in the house and whether there is anything worth stealing.
Disturbingly one sign, in the shape of an open book, even suggests there is a vulnerable female occupant while another indicates a homeowner who is “nervous and afraid”.
A simple ‘X’ means the home is a good target, while the same symbol outlined with a circle means there is nothing worth stealing in the property.
A capital D with a dash drawn in it indicates that burgling the house is too risky, while five circles in the shape of a star shows that a property is wealthy.
Other marks reveal if a house is alarmed or has already been targeted by burglars.
A Staffordshire Police spokesman said: “On August 20 there has been paint sprayed on vehicles in Seaton and Wilnecote lane.
“The small spray mark, which is on the front of the vehicles, is believed to be a tag by the criminals.
“The tags could mean the car will be targeted at a later date.
“Warn your neighbours to be on their guard and to make sure their properties are secure as possible at all times,” the spokesperson added.
“Any suspicious activity should be reported to Staffordshire police immediately.
“Anyone with any information regarding this incident is asked to contact Staffordshire police on 101, quoting reference number 582 of August 20.”