AN organised gang of burglars is believed to have targeted the rural Colchester region.

Detectives dealt with six burglaries in Mile End Road on the outskirts of Colchester, Great Horkesley and Eight Ash Green.

All of them were reported between early evening on Friday and mid-morning on Saturday.

In each incident, the intruder had sneaked around the back of the house and prised open locked windows, or forced out the double glazing.

A camera was stolen in almost every break-in. Other items taken include jewellery and at least one laptop computer.

Det Con Tim Harris, investigating officer, said: “We believe all six burglaries were carried out by the same people.

“The way the crimes were committed is very similar in each incident.

“The burglars have used insecure or poorly protected routes through to the back of homes and then forced their way inside.”

“They all appear to have happened in the early evening, although they were reported at different times.

“We believe these burglaries were carried out by a mobile, organised group of people who appear to have done a large amount of pre-planning.”

Police are asking the public to be vigilant for anyone acting suspiciously or who does not appear genuine to contact them.

Det Con Harris said: “We are investigating the possibility the perpetrators may already have visited the areas before the burglaries. We therefore ask residents to call us as a matter of priority if you see anyone suspicious loitering around, or there are any door-to-door salesmen or women who do not have ID.”

Anyone with any information is urged to contact detectives at Colchester CID on 0300 3334444.