A suspicious late-night visitor has prompted a warning from police.
West Mercia Police are urging Worcestershire residents to remain vigilant after an incident in Lower Broadheath, where an unknown individual photographed a home before leaving the area.
The incident occurred on Elgar Way at around 10.45pm on Wednesday (October 21), amid a series of car key burglaries across the county.
A police spokesperson said: “A resident has reported that an unknown person came through a hedge line onto their property and took a photograph of their house before leaving the area.
“While the reasons for this behaviour are unknown, we would like to remind residents to remain vigilant.
“Worcestershire has experienced a number of car key burglary offences, where offenders have targeted properties in an attempt to steal vehicle keys and high-value vehicles.”
What are car key burglaries?
Car key burglary involves breaking into a home specifically to steal car keys and subsequently the vehicle.
Offenders often target properties based on the value and desirability of the cars parked there.
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Police are now appealing for assistance following the incident in Lower Broadheath.
The spokesperson said: “If you witnessed anything suspicious in the Elgar Way area around the time of this incident, or have CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage that may assist, please report it to police.
“Stay alert, look out for your neighbours, and continue to report suspicious activity.”
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How can I prevent car key burglaries?
Officers shared several crime-prevention tips to deter vehicle-related burglaries.
Residents are advised to keep keys out of sight, consider locking vehicles in a garage if possible, and use high-quality alarms and immobilisers.
Additional advice includes parking less valuable vehicles behind high-value ones on driveways, keeping house doors and windows locked, and installing a good-quality burglar alarm.