Police warning as housebreakings in area climb to nine in a month

Residents are urged to check their locks and ensure any alarms and CCTV are working.

Police Scotland warning as housebreakings in Highlands climb to nine in a month Getty Images

Police have issued a warning to people in the Highlands to ensure their homes are secure after a recent spate of break-ins in the area continued to rise.

Detectives had already issued a plea to those in Badenoch and Strathspey after six housebreakings occurred in just a week.

Those thefts took place between Saturday, March 2 and Monday, March 11 and included properties in Newtonmore, Kingussie and Aviemore.

An investigation into the crimes was launched but on Monday Police Scotland confirmed that another three break-ins had happened.

The force said three further incidents took place on Craig Na Gower Avenue in Aviemore between Tuesday, March 19 and Sunday, March 24.

Items including jewellery, electronics and cash were taken from the properties.

Police said they are keeping an “open mind” over whether the incidents are linked.

They are urging members of the public to be vigilant and report anything out of the ordinary.

Detective inspector Calum Reid said: “I would like to reassure the public that we are thoroughly investigating these incidents and are committed to finding the persons responsible.

“We are keeping an open mind about whether these incidents are linked.

“Help from the public is vital to our enquiries. Anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in these areas, no matter how small, should get in touch.

“I would like to take this opportunity to remind people to take all precautions available to ensure that their homes are as secure as possible before leaving.

“Take time to make sure all locks are working and any alarm systems or CCTV are set before leaving your home and remember to remove or store any valuables out of sight.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting 3723 of March 24.

Crimestoppers can also be reached anonymously on 0800 555 111.

More information on protecting properties from break-ins can be found here.

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