Cheshire Constabulary launch operation to tackle rising threat of burglary in countryside areas near Chester

Dec 3 2009 by Ben Coulbeck, Chester Chronicle

COUNTRYSIDE homes are being targeted by criminals as reported crimes of burglary in rural Cheshire have increased.

Police say that properties in the Western Rural area of the county are being targeted by burglars from neighbouring counties.

But Cheshire Constabulary is reassuring residents that a cross-border operation has been launched to target criminals and reduce the threat of burglary in rural locations.

Inspector Phil Hodgson, who runs the Western Rural Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said that burglary is at the top of his agenda.

“We have been experiencing an increase in burglaries which we believe are being committed by offenders travelling into the area specifically to commit crime, he said. “Tackling this type of crime has become a priority for my team.

“This area is a safe place to live and we want to keep it that way by tackling issues head on.

“This operation is about preventing burglaries and catching offenders. We want them to know they are not welcome here and we will make life as uncomfortable as possible for those aiming to commit crime.”

In addition to the operation, Cheshire Constabulary are continuing to run project Farmwatch, led by PC Tony Owens, as farms are often targeted for their valuable machinery.

Insp Hodgson added that members of the public have an important role to play in helping reduce crime.

“We do see sneak-in burglaries, where offenders try doors and sneak-in to the house,” he said.

“They target handbags, laptops and cash.

“I would urge people to lock their front doors when they go into the house.

“Simple measures like that can stop you becoming a victim.”

For more information about the Western Rural NPU call 0845 458 6393 or email western.rural@cheshire.pnn.police.uk