Security News, Tips & Advice
Over the past three years, both Buckinghamshire and Berkshire have experienced fluctuating burglary and theft rates, with a general increase in recent times.
Specifically, Buckinghamshire recorded approximately 2,800 burglary incidents from September 2023 to August 2024, marking a 3.9% rise over the previous year. The county's burglary crime rate now ranks as the 24th highest among the 54 counties in England, though it remains below the national average at 3.8 incidents per 1,000 people.
In terms of high-crime areas, Aylesbury and High Wycombe in Buckinghamshire report elevated burglary rates, with Aylesbury noted for increasing incidents related to theft and burglary alongside community concerns around antisocial behaviour.
In Berkshire, towns such as Slough and Reading also have high crime rates, driven both by burglaries at Residential and Commercial premises. Some of the major incidents in recent years include:
> High-profile burglary in High Wycombe (2022):
A group targeted a jewellery store, using forced entry and extensive damage to steal high-value items. Police increased patrols following this and similar incidents to deter further commercial burglary attempts.
> Slough warehouse break-in (2023):
Thieves breached security at a large commercial warehouse, stealing thousands of pounds worth of electronics. The sophisticated method of entry raised concerns about organised crime involvement..
Update on Burglary Rates in Buckinghamshire & Berkshire:
> Residential break-in spree in Aylesbury (2023):
A series of home burglaries were reported within a month, leading to community fears. Thieves typically targeted homes in the early evening hours, taking electronics and jewellery.
Attempted burglary on an office complex in Maidenhead (2024):
An office complex was targeted during non-business hours, though the suspects were thwarted by enhanced security measures on-site.
> Jewellery heist in Buckingham (2024):
Thieves targeted a high-end jewellery store, utilising tools to breach reinforced glass. This incident received significant media attention due to the value of items stolen and the suspects’ escape.
The security concerns stemming from these incidents highlight a need for improved surveillance and security systems, especially in commercial zones and densely populated residential areas.
Local police in both counties are emphasising public safety programs and encouraging community involvement to prevent future crimes.
Time to Think About Security?
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Author: Lloyd Marriot, Director, Templewood Security Systems Ltd
Date: 29th October 2024