A string of high value burglaries in Dartford has led to Kent Police warning families to take steps to protect their homes from burglars targeting jewellery and gold.

The reminders come following a number of reported break-ins in Dartford and Medway involving the theft of jewellery.

Police believe there are four burglaries, all of which took place on Friday, February 17, that may have the possibility of being linked.

Sergeant Dave Crompton of Kent Police said: “You can never underestimate just how much of an impact burglary can have on the lives of those affected.

“Victims feel violated and uneasy in their own homes, and the matter is made worse when the items stolen are not only valuable but also highly sentimental or a family heirloom.

“While our officers will do everything they can to prevent such burglaries occurring, there are steps residents can take to make sure their homes are secure and deter would-be offenders.

“For example, I would strongly encourage families to keep large amounts of cash or gold out of the house if they can, such as in a safety deposit box at a bank where available.

“If you do need to keep high-value items at home then keep them in a good quality safe, bolted to a solid wall or floor and hidden out of sight.”

The four reports that are potentially linked include an incident on Burnham Road, Dartford where patio doors were smashed and jewellery and cash stolen, an incident on Princes Road in Dartford involving the theft of jewellery after the front door was forced open, and an incident in the London Road area of Dartford where the front door was forced open and jewellery was stolen.

Police are also investigating a report of a break in on City Way in Rochester where the front door was forced open before cash and jewellery was stolen from within.

Anyone who wishes to report a burglary or any suspicious activity is urged to call 101, or 999 if a crime is in progress.

Witnesses or anyone with information can call 101 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.