Spotlight shone on crimes after dark

With just three weeks until the clocks change, police in Dunfermline have launched Operation After Dark, focusing on housebreaking.

The initiative will run until March and will feature additional road checks and increased highvisibility foot patrols, particularly after dark. Leaflets will also be distributed to households.

Community Sergeant Kenny Greig said officers, in partnership with Neighbourhood Watch and Police Scotland Youth volunteers, would be out speaking to residents, providing a reassuring presence and giving security advice.

“The darker evenings can create a fear of crime that is at times disproportionate to the actual risk,” he said. “This type of crime is rare in the Dunfermline area but we have seen some recent incidents and I would ask the public to remain vigilant.”

He said one of the easiest steps people could take was to “simply remember to lock your doors”.

“Many of these crimes are committed by the opportunist criminal and by simply locking up and remembering basic home security, these crimes could be prevented.”

Other tips include securing sheds and garages and fitting devices such as locks, door viewers and chains.

Mr Greig said partners at Fife Cares could install security measures for vulnerable and elderly members of the community.

Leavings lights on in rooms can help, as can timer switches and outdoor lighting.

Bill Young of Neighbourhood Watch said: “Our main aim is to get community safety and crime prevention messages across and give people the chance to purchase items of equipment which could improve their personal security or the security of their homes or garden sheds.”