Callous thieves ransacked a home in Sunderland and stole £50,000 worth of jewellery, including 10 high-value rings, five designer watches and luxury Pandora items.
Police were called to the property on Crosslea Avenue on Monday December 30 after the large quantity of sentimental jewellery was taken from the address.
It is believed that, once they'd forced entry and swiped the items, the offenders used a red suitcase to carry them away.
The occupants were not home at the time.
Police are keen to hear from anyone who either saw anyone in the area acting suspiciously with a red suitcase or who recognises any of the items.
Detective constable Mick Boyd, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was a high-value burglary which saw criminals force entry into an address while the occupants were out and make off with a number of expensive items.
“Burglary is such an emotive crime that can have a long-lasting effect on not only the victim, but the wider community as a whole.
"As a result, we are taking this incredibly seriously and a team of detectives are now working to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.
“A number of the items are of great sentimental value to the victim, so I am appealing to anybody with information to come forward and assist us with our enquiries.
“Even the smallest bit of information could hold the key to ensuring those who committed this offence are caught and put before the courts.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 163869R/19 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Alternatively, you can email 1116@northumbria.pnn.police.uk .
