Gold jewellery stolen in spate of break-ins
Homes in Lanarkshire are among those targeted in a spree of housebreakings across Scotland.
Police Scotland is now carrying out inquiries as part of Operation Suitcase, which was launched in response to a significant number of Asian homes being broken into and high-value gold and other expensive items being stolen.
Over a 10-day period in August, 14 incidents occurred across the country, including in both Howieshill Road in Cambuslang and McArthur Crescent in East Kilbride. Both Lanarkshire incidents occurred on August 29.
A break-in on McGoldrick Place in Stepps occurred on August 23.
Gold jewellery and watches, worth a combined total of £200,000, were taken in the crimes and inquiries are ongoing to identify those responsible.
The 14 housebreakings are being linked and anyone with information is asked to come forward.
In particular, officers are keen to trace a gun-metal grey Cupra Ateca car, which is believed to have been in the area of each crime and is likely being used by the suspects.
Detective Sergeant Allan MacInnes from the community investigation unit in Govan, said:“As a result of each of these incidents, the homeowners have been left devastated at the theft of their belongings and we are pursuing a number of lines of inquiry as we look to identify the culprits and trace the stolen items.
“We would ask that anyone who remembers seeing any suspicious activity in the affected areas between 21 and 31 August, or who can help us locate the grey Cupra Ateca and its occupants, contacts police immediately.
“In addition, anyone with any other information relevant to our ongoing investigation, should also get in touch.
“The public have a vital role to play by ensuring their valuables are stored safely and out of sight and that all doors and windows are secured appropriately when left unoccupied.
“We would also recommend that those choosing to store significantly valuable items within their home invest in robust security measures such as safes, alarms and motionactivated lighting.
“In addition, where possible we encourage the use of safety deposit boxes outwith your home address, or if this is not a viable option, then please consider using a safe storage option, which is approved by your insurer.”
Those with information can contact Police Scotland by dialling 101 and quoting incident number 2747 of 25/08/2021. Alternatively, an anonymous report can be made to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.