Thieves target 14 Asian homes

Spate of robberies in 11 days across the Central Belt

Police have launched a major probe after 14 homes belonging to Asian families were broken into during an 11-day crime spree.

Gold jewellery and watches worth a combined total of £200,000 were stolen in the raids, which officers believe are linked.

The incidents took place between August 21 and 31. Homes were targeted in Beith in Ayrshire, Bathgate in West Lothian, Stranraer, Cambuslang and Stepps, near Glasgow, Paisley, East Kilbride and Glasgow, with high-value gold and other expensive items nicked.

Police Scotland has launched an investigation named Operation Suitcase and officers have been carrying out inquiries into the thefts.

The force is keen to trace a gun-metal grey Cupra Ateca car which is believed to have been used by the suspects as it was seen in the area of each crime.

Detective Sergeant Allan MacInnes, from the Community Investigation Unit in Govan, urged anyone with information to come forward.

He said: “As a result of each of these incidents the homeowners have been left devastated at the theft of their belongings. We are pursuing a number of lines of inquiry as we look to identify the culprits.

“We would ask anyone who remembers seeing any suspicious activity in the affected areas between August 21 and 31, or who can help us locate the grey Cupra Ateca and its occupants, to contact police. In addition, anyone with information relevant to our ongoing investigation should also get in touch.

“Preventing housebreaking and reducing the numbers of those affected by such crimes is a top priority for police. The public has a vital role to play by ensuring valuables are stored safely and out of sight and that doors and windows are secured. We would recommend those choosing to store significantly valuable items within their home to invest in robust security measures such as safes, alarms and motionactivated lighting.”

Homeowners have been left devastated by thefts DS ALLAN MACINNES ON OPERATION SUITCASE