Call to tighten security after thefts of gems

POLICE are urging residents to ensure their properties and valuables are secured following a recent increase in jewellery thefts across Staffordshire.

Seven incidents have been reported since April 18 across residential properties.

These offenders may be targeting rural properties with limited CCTV coverage, where they are forcing entry and conducting untidy searches for cash, jewellery and safes.

In one incident in Newcastleunder-lyme in the county, thieves stole £100,000 in jewellery, cash, a white Mercedes Vito van and £15k in tools.

Detective Inspector Peter Cooke, of CID North at Staffordshire Police, said: “Residents are reminded to ensure entrances and access points to their properties are always secured – even if you are in the house in daylight hours.

“Opportunistic criminals may chance their hand and try doors and windows to see if they are unsecured.”