Homeowners urged to secure homes after masked men break into house

We are urging residents to make sure their homes are secure following a recent burglary at an address in Stoke-on-Trent.

We were called to a property off Dawlish Drive at 8.40pm on Wednesday (14 December) after a woman reported that two unknown masked men had broken into her property.

The offenders had made off with goods worth more than £500, including an e-scooter.

The victim, in her 30s, was left shaken but unhurt in the incident.

We are currently carrying out door-to-door inquiries and reviewing CCTV footage of the area at the time of the burglary to try and identify those responsible.

Inspector Mark Burslem, of Stoke South Local Policing team, said: “We are appealing for anyone with CCTV, smart doorbell or dashcam footage to come forward.

“We would urge everyone to please ensure entrances to their properties are secure at all times to deter criminals who chance their hand and try doors and gates to see if there is a way in.

“To report any suspicious incidents such as this please message the force on social media or call 101 to pass on the details. In an emergency, always dial 999.”

In order to protect yourself and your property from the impact of theft and burglary, please:

• Make sure your front and back doors are locked at all times – even when you’re at home. If you’re answering the front door then make extra sure your back door is locked

• Before you answer the door, think about whether you’re expecting anyone

• If you have a chain on your door – use it. Don’t remove it unless you’re absolutely certain that person is genuine

• Tighten up security – focus on improving the protection given by doors, windows and fences to make it harder for anyone trying to break in

• Consider using a timer device to automatically turn lights on in the evenings

• Keep all valuable items out of sight and, if possible, in a safe

Anyone with information relating to the Bentilee burglary should message us on Facebook or Twitter quoting incident number 636 of 14 December, or call 101.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

For more advice on preventing burglary, visit: Protecting your home from crime | Crime prevention | Staffordshire Police