Asian communities across Nottinghamshire are being warned to remain vigilant after an increase in burglaries specifically targeting family gold.
In recent months, the value of gold has risen around 20 per cent to an unprecedented high and rates are expected to continue increasing throughout this year.
The gold is often bought as gifts in Asian communities and is of a high purity – 22 or 24 carat – that is passed down through generations, holding significant sentimental value.
Offenders are targeting the city centre and surrounding suburbs and are entering properties via unlocked windows and doors.
Between March 25 and April 21, Nottinghamshire Police recorded an increase in the number of burglaries targeting Asian communities.
Several arrests linked to burglaries have been made over the last month, including one offender who has been arrested and charged with 14 aggravated burglaries.
Nottinghamshire Police’s neighbourhood policing teams are increasing proactive hotspot patrols in affected areas.
Crime Prevention Officer Yvonne Pickersgill said: “Burglary is an intrusive crime that leaves people feeling vulnerable in their own homes.
“We know that theft of this gold jewellery from our Asian communities has a financial cost, but also a significant sentimental value as these items are often passed down through generations.
“The support of our communities is vital in helping us bring offenders to justice, so please contact us if you see anyone acting suspiciously in your area or if you have information about these burglaries and the sale of stolen jewellery.
“We would advise anyone with expensive jewellery in their homes to ensure it is locked away in a high-quality safe that is anchored in place and complies with insurance rating standards.
“If you leave your home, please remember to lock your doors and windows, put valuable items out of sight, and remove objects from outside your property that could be used to gain entry.”
How to protect yourself from burglary
- Ensure all keys, including car keys, are out of sight and away from the letterbox as a device could be used to hook keys through the letterbox.
- Store any high-value items, such as jewellery and passports, in a secure safe or bank safety deposit box.
- Always lock your doors and windows every time you leave the house, even when you are just out in the garden.
- Consider your privacy settings on any social media platforms when posting about weddings, festivals or other celebrations.
Officers are urging the public to Mark It, Record It and Flag It to help keep their valuables safe.
Mark or etch an item with your postcode, house, or flat number, or the first three letters of your address.
This helps the police identify stolen goods, which makes it harder for thieves to sell.
Property marking is not just for electrical items and bikes as valuable belongings such as antiques can also be marked, however, we recommend that you seek specialist advice.
Register your valuables using an accredited property database, which can be found on the Secured by Design website.
Take photographs of jewellery and keep documents like receipts to ensure you can prove ownership.
If you value your property, then mark it as protected. Window stickers and signage are extremely effective and have proven to be a powerful deterrent against burglary.
Members of the public can also join their local Neighbourhood Watch, joining other like-minded neighbours who are vigilant against criminals operating in their area.
