Warning issued following high-value gold thefts 

Police have issued a warning following an increase in thefts of high-value gold jewellery, cash and safes. Offenders have forced entry to properties across south Gloucestershire, south Bristol and Somerset. Since the beginning of February incidents have been reported in Bridgwater, Yeovil, Somerton and Glastonbury. 

Scott Hill, Chief Inspector for Neighbourhood Policing in Bath & North East Somerset and Force Burglary Lead, said: “We urge residents to remain vigilant, report any suspicious activity, review home security arrangements and how high‑value items are stored. With gold prices currently reaching historic highs, thieves may be even more motivated to target valuable jewellery and precious metals. Please do what you can to make your home a harder target for burglars. 

“If anyone has any information regarding the latest series of burglaries, please contact Avon and Somerset Police quoting 5225345842.”

Avon and Somerset Police recommend: 

• Keep high-value gold, jewellery and currency with your bank or a specialist secure storage company,

• If kept at home, ensure high valued items are stored in a suitable safe. Various grades of safe are available according to the value, size and number of items you want to store. Safes should be supplied and fitted by a company approved by the Master Locksmiths Association,  

• Be wary of unexpected callers, and if you’re suspicious, tell the police by calling 101,

• Ensure your home is secure by locking doors and windows, installing an alarm, CCTV, security and a smart doorbell,

• Join Neighbourhood Watch,
  

• Photograph and keep descriptions of items which are of sentimental value,
  

• Take care with what you share on social media, some posts may unintentionally reveal that your house may be empty,

• Register valuables on www.immobilise.com so that if we recover your property, we can return it to you.

Further crime prevention advice can be found on the Avon and Somerset Police website by visiting: www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/crime-prevention-advice/