More than 50 burglaries in Newmarket, Mildenhall and Haverhill are linked, say Suffolk Constabulary

More than 50 burglaries recently reported in West Suffolk towns are linked, Suffolk Constabulary believe.

The force has launched Operation Hepworth to combat the series of break-ins, which have predominantly taken place in Newmarket, Mildenhall and Haverhill.

Detective Inspector Tam Burgess, based in Bury St Edmunds, said: "This is an alarming amount of burglaries, causing misery and distress to a vast number of individuals and families across the county.

"We are pursuing a number of lines of enquiry in relation to these burglaries, but the vital key to catching these criminals could be provided by a member of the public.”

Police believe the series of 56 incidents, which began in October, may be linked to further crime across East Anglia.

A statement released today (Wednesday, February 6) read: “The typical features of these break-ins is that they usually occur between 5pm in the afternoon and 9pm in the evening.

“They involve forced entry to the property and with jewellery and cash the main target for the criminals.

“Although officers are following a number of leads in pursuit of the burglars, police are appealing for local communities to be on the look-out for any suspicious behaviour.

“Do not disregard persons or vehicles that appear unusual or out of place.”

Suffolk Constabulary has stated the importance of community intelligence being the ‘eyes and ears’ for the force - and encouraged formation of Neighbourhood Watch groups.