Families urged to install CCTV over crime fears in Wednesbury
Families on a burglary-plagued estate are being urged to install CCTV by police to try and catch out crooks.
The early hours raids in Wednesbury are believed to be down to the same gang getting into homes through windows or doors – even while residents are asleep upstairs.
Police have now asked people living on the estate to look at installing CCTV systems, costing hundreds of pounds, to keep their homes safe.
The raiders have struck in Woden Road North, Old Park Road, Elm Avenue and Hawthorn Road.
The four roads are within a short distance of each other near Old Park Primary School in King’s Hill.
Patrols have been stepped up in the area and West Midlands Police has launched an investigation in a bid to catch the burglars. In the meantime the force has also advised residents to take action of their own. Samantha Price-Hunt, a Sandwell PCSO, on a local policing webpage, said: “We have received a number of burglary reports in the Wednesbury North area.
“Please lock doors and windows with suitable locks.
“Do not leave a window open if you are not able to watch it, especially if it is downstairs.
“Many burglaries occur as a result of open and insecure windows. The same applies to doors – many burglaries occur when entry is gained via an open back door and even via open front doors. Consider how to prevent access to your rear garden.
“If they cannot get into the garden, then they cannot get to the rear of the house easily. Consider installing a CCTV system or alarm.
“Investigations are ongoing and officers are on active patrols in the area. If you see any suspicious activity please call police on 101.”
Homes in Woden Road North and Old Park Road were the first to be targeted, between 9pm and 5.30am last Thursday.
Cash, a handbag, ring and watch were snatched.
The following night, properties were then hit in Elm Avenue and Hawthorn Road between 3am and 3.30am.
This time, two purses, a handbag and mobile phone were stolen.
Wednesbury North councillor Tony Meehan said: “I would encourage people to do what they can to prevent it.
“If they can afford CCTV it is something to think about but it has to be within their budget.
“It is a pity there are too many houses for the council to do anything about it.”
