CROOKS are targeting properties in Berechurch amid a series of reported incidents, a concerned councillor has claimed.
A gang of three people allegedly broke into a van before attempting to burgle a neighbouring vehicle in Queen Elizabeth Way, Colchester.
It is said no tools were taken but money and keys were snatched during the brazen thefts.
Another resident reported their garden table and chairs had been stolen in recent days.
And one homeowner claimed she returned to her property last week and found her door to be wide open.
Berechurch councillor Dave Harris has now urged residents to remain vigilant and look out for each other.
He added he was “gutted” to hear about what had happened.
“Normally we have fairly low crime and burglary numbers here in Berechurch, so it wasn’t nice to hear of criminal activity,” said Mr Harris.
“I know times are tough for people but that is no excuse for making them even tougher for others.
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“The Neighbourhood Watch is aware of what happened and we are spreading the message to residents to ensure they can keep a close eye on their belongings.”
The latest figures from Essex Police reveal 46 burglaries were reported in Colchester in September.
Statistics in the south of the city are generally lower than other wards closer to the city centre, such as Castle and Highwoods.
Mr Harris has called on anyone who witnesses of falls victim to a crime to report it so Berechurch can become a higher priority for police patrols.
He said: “As a community we can band together and protect each other.
“We can do this by joining the Neighbourhood Watch and sharing information from CCTV and Ring doorbell cameras.
“I urge people to report crime of any sort to the police. In Berechurch we have great community officers who are very active in helping.
“Even if nothing can be done, increased crime statistics will help bring a larger police presence to the area which will reassure residents.”
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