POLICE are warning residents to secure their homes following a spate of burglaries in the run-up to Christmas.
In the past week, several break-ins have been reported in the Famagusta district, with residences and holiday homes being targeted in Freneros, Protaras and Ayia Napa.
On most occasions, the intruders forced sliding doors at the back of properties and stole jewellery, cash and other valuables.
“We have had two break ins the week, and three last week,” a spokesman for Paralimni Police told the Cyprus Mail.
“Stealing items from cars, unoccupied homes and even shops has really increased recently. We measure this kind of crime on a week-by-week basis and burglaries are rising, especially in the past two years.”
Police recommend residents shut their windows, set their alarm systems and write down serial numbers of their electronics in case they are stolen.
Empty holiday homes are a particular target for burglars, with their crimes not being detected until the owners return to the properties.
Residents are being encouraged to co-operate with police by tipping them off if they suspect burglars might be ‘casing’ the property of someone who is away.
One of the most bizarre robberies of the week is being blamed on drunken criminals, who broke into a fish shop in Paralimni and made off with 8 bags of fresh octopus and trout.
“We managed to catch the man who stole the fish, because he still stank of seafood the next day when we picked him up,” the spokesman added.
Although Cyprus still boasts low rates of burglary and theft, police warn that such crimes always increase during the summer and Christmas holiday periods.
Anyone who sees suspicious activity or has information about the burglaries should call Paralimni police on 23-803030.
The following advice is recommended to help residents avoid being targeted by thieves.
l LOCK your front and back doors, and windows, even when at home
l STOP and think before you answer the door – check back doors are locked first and look to see who it is before opening
l CHAIN the door before you open it and keep a bar or chain on while you talk to callers
l Do make sure your UPVC doors are properly locked with a key – NOT just closed with the handle up
l Do give your home the ‘lived in’ look with lights on timers
l Do keep valuables out of sight
l Do use a garage if you have one to keep your car out of sight
l Do secure your garden with locked gates and fences
l Do consider having an alarm and security lights installed
l Don’t leave ladders and tools outside for burglars to use
