Residential burglary, Milton Under Wychwood

Incident Date: Tuesday 16th June
Time: Approximately 2am
Location: Brook Field Close, Milton Under Wychwood

At approximately 2am this morning, a burglary occurred at a residential property on Brook Field Close, Milton Under Wychwood. The offenders smashed the key safe off of the wall and then have accessed the key which was inside. The thieves have then gone around to the back of the property and accessed the house via the back door using the key from the key safe. The thieves have then searched the downstairs to find car keys and then steal the car off the driveway.

Police are requesting residents to check their CCTV for that time frame for anyone looking suspicious or suspicious vehicles. If anyone has any further information, please contact police on 101 and quote reference number 43260300996

To reduce the risk of burglary and vehicle theft, we strongly encourage all residents to review and implement the following security measures:

. Key safes can be a convenient way to provide access to carers, family members, or trusted friends, but they can also be targeted by criminals. Ensure your key safe is police-approved, securely fitted in a discreet location

· Double-lock front and back doors (if your lock allows) and ensure window locks are engaged, and remove keys.

·  Consider installing a home alarm system and ensure it’s set when you are out.

·  Use doorbell cameras or CCTV systems to monitor activity outside your home, including the rear of your property.

·  Keep keys well away from doors, windows, and letterboxes, and never leave them visible or unattended. If you own a keyless-entry vehicle, store keys in a signal-blocking Faraday pouch or box to help prevent relay theft. Consider using additional security measures such as a steering wheel lock, immobiliser, tracker, driveway bollard, or wheel clamp. Always lock your vehicle, even when parked at home, and ensure spare keys are stored securely and out of sight (avoid leaving them near the front door or windows).

·  Use timer switches on lights to make your home look occupied.

. Install a burglary-rated safe, it is specifically designed and certified to withstand physical attacks from tools, drills, and torches.

. A strong community is one of the best crime prevention tools we have. Keep an eye out for your neighbours, especially those who may be elderly, vulnerable, or away from home. Report any suspicious activity.