THE HOMES of Asian families in Redditch are being targeted by raiders in search of gold.
Police are now urging the Asian community to take extra measures to protect their valuables following a spate of recent burglaries.
During June and July there were eight burglaries across the borough where Asian gold was specifically targeted by offenders.
Det Insp John Cashion, from West Mercia Police, said: “Traditional Asian jewellery is often unique in design and has been handed down through family generations. As well as financial value it normally has personal value due to its historical and religious symbolism.
“With the value of gold currently very high, we have seen an increase in reports of burglaries where jewellery, particularly jewellery owned by Asian families, has been targeted. This is a particular problem during the wedding season over the summer months when gold is traditionally given as gift to couples getting married.
“People need to think carefully about where they store valuable items, making sure they are kept securely in a safe which is permanently fixed inside the house.
“Other simple precautions can help, such as ensuring doors are kept locked even when you are in the house and that windows are closed when you go out or go to bed.”
Officers from the North Worcestershire Local Area Policing are working closely with the Asian community to raise awareness of the crimes.
Advice includes ensuring jewellery is insured, storing high value items elsewhere like in a bank deposit box, making a list and photographing all pieces of jewellery with a description of each item and registering jewellery with a registration company.
Anyone with any information about the theft of gold and jewellery should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
