TWO gangs targeting high-value cars in on-the-border Barnsley villages are being treated as a top priority for neighbouring police forces, the Chronicle has learned.
Spiralling crime rates from so-called two-in-one burglaries - which involve suspects breaking into a property for the sole purpose of taking car keys - has led to more work being done in communities such as Mapplewell, Staincross and Royston.
Police say burglars, in some of the most recent cases, have burned through locks in order to gain entry and several Barnsley-registered vehicles - wearing false plates - have been recovered in West Yorkshire.
Increased patrols, both on foot and in marked and unmarked vehicles, have already happened and will continue to form a key part of the West and South Yorkshire forces’ strategies in the coming weeks.
Sgt Dave Baines said: “Patrols are on the up because of the locations where crime is happening as they are straight out of South Yorkshire.
“Serious resources are being put into it and although there’s been incident reductions in some areas, in others it’s raised. We believe there are two gangs but this goes all the way to Pontefract.
“We want to reassure residents that we’re working hard on stopping these incidents from happening.”
Barnsley officers have been visiting houses identified as having high-value cars parked on driveways and crime prevention advice - such as CCTV, better locks and fitting steering wheel locks - has been delivered.
Detective Inspector Kate Leake added: “We have unfortunately seen a real spike in this type of burglary in Barnsley in recent months and I can fully appreciate how frustrating and distressing this must be for the victims experiencing this crime.
“The individuals participating in this criminality appear to be quite sophisticated in their methods, with our officers receiving numerous reports of door locks being melted or burned out rather than typical smash-and-grab tactics.
“I want to reassure the public that we’re taking this matter incredibly seriously and are working hard with neighbouring forces to identify the offenders and work together to stop this issue.
“We have regular patrols in affected areas and have the support of specialist colleagues from across the force to cover the road networks in and out of Barnsley.
“Given that the recent incidents have involved burning through locks, consider installing supplementary smoke alarms near to doors that can act as an immediate warning should someone try to break into house. These are available at minimal cost.
“We’d also suggest investing in the most simple vehicle security method a steering wheel lock. They’re very difficult to break and are an obvious deterrent to anyone thinking of stealing a vehicle.
“We absolutely do not recommend taking keys to bed, as this could place the owner at additional risk should someone choose to break in.
“I would like to reassure the public that South Yorkshire Police are doing everything we can to protect the people of Barnsley and prosecute those responsible.
“I would urge residents to report suspicious activity to the police via the police website, 101 or 999 if a crime is in progress. Even the smallest piece of information however seemingly insignificant could prove crucial in bringing criminals to justice.”
