The team are showing people how to prevent crime
As the dark nights are approaching, the Metropolitan Police Service is unleashing a new sting across South West London to prevent burglars.
As the clocks go back and the nights draw near, the hottest season for burglary is just around the corner.
Areas that are a concern include Lambeth, Croydon, Wandsworth, Lewisham and Merton.
Bumblebee Teams, made up of experienced and specialised officers, will be able to work across borough boundaries.
The team will include co-ordinated search activity for outstanding suspects, managing an improved forensic strategy and working in partnership with the Met’s Territorial Support Group (TSG) and the London Crime Squad to bring offenders to justice.
Neighbourhood watch members will be encouraged to raise awareness to all their residents about burglary and how to prevent it.
These simple steps to prevent crimes consist of unconscious habits such as installing a light timer to turn the lights on while you are out to deter potential thieves.
Commander Simon Letchford, the lead for Operation Bumblebee, said: “Burglary is a distressing crime that can have lasting emotional effects on the victims, who no longer feel safe in their own homes.
“The Met feels strongly about preventing burglary and whilst burglary is down we want to continue that drop and bring those offenders before the courts.
“Operation Bumblebee raises awareness of burglary and we encourage everyone to consider their home security. Speak to your local SNT officers or visit our web pages where you will find lots of helpful information on how to protect your home.
“Take a visit to our ‘Virtual House’, which is an online interactive tool that will take you through each room and provide you with valuable security advice.”
The Met is advising Londoners to:
Close and lock all your doors and windows, even if you are only going out for a few minutes, make sure UPVC doors are properly locked with a key, make sure the side and/or back gate is locked, lock your shed or garage, make sure that any valuables are out of sight, leave some lights on if it will be dark before you get home, don’t leave your car keys or ID documents near doors, windows or your letterbox.
For more crime prevention tips and advice on how to make your home secure visit our burglary prevention section on our website or contact your local Safer Neighbourhoods team. In an emergency, always dial 999.
Photo courtesy of Metropolitan Police, with thanks.
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