POLICE are investigating a number of burglaries in Witham.

Over the weekend at least two houses were targeted on Armond Road.

Police and residents have said the same tactics have been used to get in to the houses.

Essex Police said through their Essex Community Messaging page: "We are currently investigating dwelling burglaries in the Witham area where persons unknown are gaining access to properties by breaking in through the rear patio doors or windows, this is happening in day light hours when the home is left unoccupied.

"Please can residents be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

"Contact 101 with information."

One resident, who did not wish to be named, said it was frustrating to hear as people had spent money on burglar alarms.

He said: "I know of two break ins that have been on Armond Road and they have been carried out exactly the same way.

"The back patio doors aren't being touched but the window on the left hand side is being smashed.

"I don't know if anything was taken."

He said he had noticed a couple of vans driving slowly down the road, which had put residents on edge.

He said: "The strangest thing is a navy blue van has been driving really slow, it passed the house and then seconds later turned around and went back past.

"I find it really suspicious but we can't jump to conclusions.

"We have all gone out and bought burglar alarms so it's a huge hole in our pockets when this happens."