Police warn of increase in burglaries across West Lindsey
With the onset of darker mornings and earlier evenings, Market Rasen police say they are seeing an increase in thefts and burglaries across West Lindsey and so-called ‘Nottingham Knockers’.
According to local policing Inspector Michael Head, on October 29, police received a report of a residential burglary on Prebend Lane, Welton, where a handbag containing a small amount of cash and a bank card was stolen.
The theft is believed to have occurred between 11am and 7.35pm, with entry gained through an insecure front door.
On October 30, police received a report of a burglary at a property on Caistor Road, Market Rasen. The occupant had been away from the address between October 25 and 30 and returned to find a window ajar. Enquiries into the circumstances remain ongoing.
Insp head added that Halloween saw a notable increase in reports of antisocial behaviour. “These incidents predominantly involved a small group of individuals already known to both Lincolnshire Police and West Lindsey District Council.
"I fully understand and share the community's frustrations regarding the time required to progress through the enforcement processes available to both organisations, as these do not always deliver the immediate resolution residents understandably expect. I am currently working with a local councillor to arrange a community meeting where residents will have the opportunity to discuss the impact of antisocial behaviour and hear about the measures being taken to address it.”
He added: "We have also seen an increase in reports of so-called ‘Nottingham Knockers’. These individuals typically cold-call at residential addresses attempting to sell household items, often claiming to have recently been released from prison. Several residents have reported that these individuals have been persistent, verbally aggressive, or intimidating when attempting to make sales. I would encourage residents not to open the door to anyone they do not recognise or are not expecting. Free No Cold Callers stickers are available from Lincolnshire Police upon request.”
Insp head is also seeking volunteers to support the Police Cadets programme. Cadet sessions will run on Wednesday evenings from 7pm to 9pm during school term time. Anyone interested in volunteering as a Cadet Leader can find further information via the Lincolnshire Police website.