KOCHI: With the IMD predicting cloudy skies and thundershowers for the next one week, senior officials with the district police warn residents to be wary of monsoon thieves. The police say the noise of the heavy rain provides an ideal cover for thieves to break-in unnoticed.
Ernakulam Rural SP K Karthick said the police patrolling has been strengthened as a preventive measure against the possibility of such crimes. “More manpower has been mobilised to conduct patrolling at night time during monsoon. Policemen have been directed to conduct inquiries about suspicious persons,” he said.
Police officers say that the incessant rain would result in the residents not hearing the thief breaking open a window or another access point to the house. During monsoon, there have even been instances of families waking up in the morning, totally oblivious about their house getting burgled overnight, said police.
“Make sure to lock all the doors properly at night. Check if the CCTV cameras in your neighbourhood are working properly. Placing utensils near the windows may also be useful in helping residents become alert in case an attempt is made by thieves to force their way into the house,” said an officer. Officials also urge residents to confirm the identity of visitors at odd hours before opening the door.
Officers said it was advisable to leave the lights on at the front and back door of houses. “Never leave tools like axes or iron bars in the open as many burglars rely on tools they find from the premises of the targeted house to break in. If you are suspicious about something or need help, do not hesitate to call the police on 112,” said an officer.
Police officers also advise residents to store a search light or a good torchlight at home. “Most burglars try to break into houses after conducting basic surveillance. Locked houses are often targeted, so alert the nearby police station if you plan to leave town after locking the house. It would be ideal to seek the help of a trustworthy neighbour to turn the lights of the house on in the evening, so as to avoid giving an impression that the house is locked. Avoid chances of newspapers getting piled near the gates as well,” said the official.
