Following reports of thefts from houses, garages and cars in the Kintore area between 22 and 23rd November, Police Scotland would like to urge people across the Garioch to take effective precautions to ensure they do not become the victims of opportunist thieves.

Sergeant Andy Sawers of the Garioch Community Policing Team said “We are encouraging local residents to lock their homes, garages, sheds and cars when they go to bed, remove the keys from the locks and store them in a secure location and to consider using alarms. They should always remove any valuable items from vehicles and not leave any items in view to reduce the likelihood of them becoming victims of crime.

“Aberdeenshire remains one of the safest areas in the country, however complacency can set in.”

Police Scotland would also like to take the opportunity to remind people that as the winter months and dark nights approach, properties with little security can become easy targets. They would like to remind residents to close windows and doors, leave some lights on, whether on timers and to use appropriate locks.

Sergeant Sawers continued “We encourage any residents who witness any type of suspicious behaviour who have any information to contact Police Scotland by telephoning 101 or in the case of emergency 999. If you want to remain anonymous you can telephone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”