House raids in East Preston, Angmering and Rustington ‘could be funding drugs habit’

There have been a series of break-ins to homes, outbuildings and vehicles over the last few weeks where cash and mobile phones were the main targets, police said.

Six out of seven incidents reported in the past three weeks have been overnight, and in four of those premises were insecure.

According to Sussex Police, overnight on Thursday and Friday, November 5 and 6, a handbag was stolen following forced entry through a kitchen window in Kerry Gardens.

And in the past week a wallet and papers were stolen from a property in Mendip Close. The papers were later discarded in a nearby alley.

Other incidents have been reported in Clarence Drive, Station Road, Vicarage Lane, Vermont Drive and Roundstone Crescent.

Vehicles have been entered in Sea Lane Close and North Lane.

Sussex Police is repeating security advice to residents.

Detective constable Jon Berisford, of the Bognor Regis priority crime team, said: “There is no undue cause for alarm, but people can help themselves and us in several ways.

“Always make sure doors and windows are locked and remove any valuables from vehicles.

“And be alert to any suspicious activity. If a crime is thought to be in progress, phone 999 and let us know without delay.

“If anything unusual has been noticed, or suspicions not yet reported, please email [email protected] or phone 101.”

One theory being explored by detectives is that the offender may be someone stealing to fund a drugs habit, police confirmed.

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