Library image – burglary —
Polices are urging business owners to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions after a recent wave of criminal activity, in which cafes and restaurants across Folkestone, Hythe, and Romney Marsh have fallen victim to a string of break-ins.
Between Wednesday, March 27, and Monday, April 8, 2024, Kent Police received reports of multiple break-ins at various locations:
- Seabrook: Thieves targeted establishments on Dymchurch Road and Martello Drive in Hythe.
- Folkestone: A break-in occurred on Tontine Street.
- St Mary’s Bay: The culprits struck on Dymchurch Road.
- Dymchurch: The High Street faced a similar incident.
The perpetrators made off with cash and valuable items like food and drink were snatched whilst padlocks, bolts, and door panels were forcibly removed. Additionally, a homeware store in Park Farm, Folkestone, had its door tampered with in an apparent burglary attempt.
Detective Inspector James Wyles of Folkestone Community Safety Unit said:
‘Crimes such as these can have devastating consequences for businesses and leave long-lasting effects that ripple out through communities.
‘While officers are investigating these reports, I would like to remind business owners to be extra cautious – ensuring windows, doors and storage buildings are locked and making sure that security systems are switched on when away from the premises.
‘Consider fitting CCTV that covers the front and rear of the premises and use timer switches on lights as a deterrent.
‘Don’t keep valuables on display, but consider installing a safe that could be bolted to the ground or wall.
‘Keep gates, boundaries and storage sheds secure and make sure items such as bins, which can be used to climb over fences or into windows, are stored away, out of view.
‘Remember to report any suspicious activity as soon as possible, calling 999 if a crime is in progress.’
Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact Kent Police on 01843 222289, quoting 46/55085/24. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously, by calling 0800 555111 or by using the online form.