Torbay and Newton Abbot hit by burglaries targeting car keys, phones and jewellery

Police in South Devon are urging residents to take extra precautions at home after a series of burglaries and opportunistic thefts across the area.

Several incidents have been reported in towns including Torquay, Paignton, Newton Abbot and Teignmouth, with victims of all ages losing car keys, phones, jewellery and cash.

Detective Sergeant Jason Parsons, from the South Devon CID team, said: “Both urban and rural residents have fallen victim to these offences and remembering to lock doors, especially at night, is very important.

"If you have a property alarm please remember to set it and during the dark winter evenings you may wish to use timer switches on lights to give the appearance that your home is occupied. Those who have a garage for vehicles should use it and door cams can be very useful to see who is approaching homes.”

He also advised residents to secure windows, hide valuables, and consider better external lighting or CCTV to deter burglars.

Police say several arrests have already been made and some offenders are due in court next year. They are asking the public to report suspicious activity via 101, 999 in an emergency, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. Victims can access support from Victim Support on 0808 16 89111.

“Burglary is distressing for householders, particularly at this time of year,” Parsons added. “We are working hard to track down offenders, but the public’s eyes and ears are crucial in helping us bring them to justice.”