Thieves are breaking into people's homes in the early hours to take car keys in order to steal vehicles.

The thieves aren’t just taking high-value cars like Audi and Mercedes, but a range of vehicles. Officers have recovered some of the stolen cars in the greater Bristol area while others remain outstanding.  Avon and Somerset Police have seen a recent increase in burglary of all types with almost one a day this month in each of our neighbourhood policing areas.   Officers are carrying out targeted patrols and attending all dwelling burglaries to scope forensic opportunities and carry out initial enquiries. Vulnerable victims are offered support through the Be Home Safe home security team. Neighbourhood Watch shares information with the local community while neighbourhood officers make follow-up visits. A dedicated team of investigators is following up all lines of enquiry but in the meantime officers ask residents to be alert and report any suspicious activity.

Everyone can help to keep their neighbourhood safe by reporting suspicious incidents. If you see someone acting suspiciously around a neighbour’s property, call police straight away. If they’re obviously breaking in, ring 999. Otherwise, call the non-emergency number 101: operators are on hand 24/7.   For more home security information, including details of joining Neighbourhood Watch, visit here. If you have any information about recent crime, you can pass it on through our website or by calling 101. Alternatively contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously by calling 0800 555 111, or online at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information.