Police are urging business owners to keep outbuildings and containers secure and remain vigilant following a series of burglaries.

Since 13 October 2023, there have been more than 40 reported burglaries in Ipswich and neighbouring towns and villages, where containers or secure lockups have been targeted and power tools and copper stolen along with other items.

Officers investigating these crimes believe they are linked and are keen to hear from any witnesses to suspicious activity around commercial premises.

Detective Inspector James Cassedy said: "The longer nights give criminals more opportunities to strike during hours of darkness. Please ensure outbuildings are secure and well-lit, alarms are activated and items are secured with locks/chains if possible."

Further crime prevention advice includes:

• Review security at your outbuildings, as well as any building where equipment is serviced. Consider installing crime prevention measures such as CCTV and security lighting. Keep outbuildings locked and secure.
• If possible, remove all GPS kit from machines when not in use, especially if the machinery is left out overnight.
• Record the serial numbers of your equipment and take a photo of the serial number and keep it safe.
• Security mark all your kit, possibly with a UV marker or permanent black marker, with the name of your location and postcode – make it as visible as possible - to make it unattractive to a potential thief.
• Try to note down the car registration number of any suspicious vehicle, if it's safe to do so, and report it to us.