BURGLARS stole cash and jewellery after breaking into a house on Portland.

Police are now appealing for witnesses and anyone with information to come forward after the burglary and a separate attempted burglary on the island.

 

The burglary happened between 8.30pm on Thursday 22 May and 6.50am on Friday 23 May 2014 at an address on Reforne.

The offenders took a ladder from the rear of the property and gained entry by forcing their way through a first floor window.

 

They carried out a thorough search, stole jewellery and watches, 500 cigarettes and a dark grey coloured Sentry safe containing cash. It is believed they left via the same route.

The attempted burglary occurred some time between 1pm on Wednesday May 28 and 10.20am on Saturday May 31on Wakeham.

Offenders smashed a kitchen window but were unable to gain entry because the window handle was locked. Ladders from the garden were also found up against the rear of the property but the property remained secure and nothing was stolen.

In both cases the occupants were away at the time. Police Constable Steve Morris, of the Portland Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “It is possible, there was suspicious activity in the area around the time these crimes took place. If you saw anything, I urge you to come forward.

“If you have been offered to buy watches or items of jewellery for unusually low prices, please contact the police on 101. “I ask anyone with information that can assist the investigations to contact the police in confidence.

“Residents are reminded to be vigilant and to be careful about leaving any insecure items outside that may assist burglars. If you are leaving your home unattended for a longer period of time than usual, please ensure this is not obvious to strangers.

“Full crime prevention advice can be found on the Dorset Police website http://CrimePrevention.dorset.police.uk.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101, quoting incident number 23:55 and 31:179. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.