Police Issue Security Alert Over Burglary Marking Tactics
The National Police are urging returning holidaymakers to remain vigilant for small markers left by burglars on door frames and to report any suspicious items immediately.
With many people returning home from summer holidays, the National Police are urging residents to be extra vigilant about home security. Criminal groups often use simple marking techniques to identify empty properties, and checking your home’s entry points upon your return is a vital safety step.
One common method involves placing thin silicone threads or small plastic fragments in the gap between the door and the frame. These act as "activity indicators": if the thread remains unbroken after a few days, burglars know the home is likely vacant and may plan a break-in. If the thread is broken or moved, it signals that someone is home.
Police warn that you should not overlook small, seemingly harmless items like plastic scraps or light objects near your door, as these are often signs that your home is being watched. If you find any such markers, do not touch or remove them yourself. Instead, contact the police immediately so they can assess the situation.
These surveillance tactics are part of a constantly evolving range of criminal methods. Prevention relies heavily on community awareness; neighbors looking out for one another and reporting unusual activity in common areas are essential to deterring crime. The National Police emphasize that proactive vigilance is the first line of defense, and any suspicious signs at your doorstep should be reported to the authorities to help prevent potential incidents.