Police in Westmoor have opened an investigation and increased night patrols after residents of the Hollins Park neighborhood reported suspicious activity on three separate nights over the past week.
The latest call came shortly before 2 a.m. on Sunday, when a resident on Linden Row saw two people with flashlights moving along a line of parked cars and trying the doors. By the time officers arrived, the pair had left on foot. A search of nearby gardens and an alley behind the street found a shed with a forced lock and an empty bicycle rack.
Doorbell footage under review
Officers are now reviewing footage from several doorbell cameras and a private security camera at a corner shop. Police say the images show at least two people, wearing dark clothing and hoods, but are not clear enough to identify anyone.
We are taking these reports seriously. Nobody has been hurt, but we want residents to know we are in the area and we want to hear from anyone who saw something.
Sergeant Lena Okafor, Westmoor police
Residents said the incidents had unsettled a street where many people leave bicycles in front gardens and rarely lock their sheds.
My neighbor’s car alarm went off at half past one and we all just assumed it was a cat. Now everyone is checking their locks twice.
Adrian Maier, Linden Row resident
Two bicycles and a set of garden tools have been reported stolen so far. Police said there was no indication that anyone had tried to enter a home.
Advice for residents
Officers recommend keeping vehicles locked and valuables out of sight, securing sheds and bicycles, and switching on outdoor lights at night where possible. Neighbors are encouraged to share camera footage with police rather than posting it online, which can hamper an investigation.
Police have asked anyone with information, or footage from the Hollins Park area between midnight and 4 a.m. on the nights in question, to contact the Westmoor station. A community meeting with officers is planned at the local library next week.
Comments 0