Suspected burglaries reported near Barnstaple

Hooded men spotted in early hours

​Suspicious incidents and alleged burglaries in Barnstaple’s Roundswell and Newport areas in the early hours of Thursday 16 January are being investigated.

Access was gained to a property on Chichester Road. Two nappy bags were taken and emptied in an alleyway next to the property.

Shortly after about 2:50am a male was seen in a garden in Coppice Gate.

Between 4:00am and 5:00am two or three males were seen on driveways in Cedar Grove and Becklake Close, with a further incident reported overnight on Higher Westlake.

Other reports in the area around the same time were received by police, whereby hooded men could be seen on driveways or in rear gardens.

It is believed suspects could be targeting high value vehicles such as BMWs, Audis and VWs.

House to house enquiries have been carried out and officers are asking anybody in the Newport and Roundswell areas to check their CCTV for anything suspicious.

Anybody who has information that can help the investigation is asked to call 101 or get in touch via our website quoting 50250011910.

Devon and Cornwall Police is issuing the following advice to protect residents against similar types of offending:

•              Ensure vehicles are left locked and secure with alarm set.  Consider purchasing a steering wheel lock for additional security.  Do not leave any property within your vehicle.  Lots of light deters thieves, make sure your car can be seen by anyone approaching it.

•              Make sure that all front and back doors to properties are locked and windows are secure.  Set your alarm system or consider having one installed if you don’t have one. You are far more likely to be targeted if you don’t have an alarm installed.

•              Ensure that car keys are stored away from doors and windows, preferably in a locked and secure drawer or box.  We recommend a faraday pouch to secure car keys in when at home.

•              Keep an eye out in your neighbourhoods and communities.  Report suspicious behaviour to the police or Crimestoppers.  Provide descriptions of any suspicious vehicles you see such as registration numbers.  If you have doorbell footage of anything suspicious, please provide this to the police.  Look out for your neighbours and help to keep your communities safe.