Dunbar housebreaking

Between midnight and 8:40am on Monday, December 7, a thief or thieves broke into a café in West Port and stole a safe containing a three-figure sum of money and three charity boxes. In a similar incident, a hairdresser was broken into on the High Street between 6pm on Friday and 8:30am on Monday, December 7, resulting in the theft of a three-figure sum of money from the cash float.

Meanwhile, a home on Edinburgh Road was targeted sometime between 11am and 8pm on Monday, December 7, which led to the theft of jewellery belonging to the occupant.

We are now carrying out inquiries in an effort to trace the stolen items and ensure those responsible are arrested.

Inspector Alan Hogarth said: “There is no evidence at this stage to link these housebreakings however we are keeping an open mind that the business premises may have been targeted.

“We are currently conducting a number of lines of inquiry locally to trace those responsible and anyone with relevant information is asked to come forward.

“Break-ins to commercial properties in Dunbar are relatively rare but there are various measures that can be taken in order to deter would-be thieves. This can include ensuring that takings are deposited at the bank by the end of each day, setting alarms/CCTV and, where possible, remove all valuables from the premises. If we can take away the benefits of breaking-in then we reduce the likelihood of repeat victims.

“Thieves by their very nature are opportunistic and are only too aware that at this time of year they are more likely to find high value presents within domestic properties.

“Therefore, try to avoid leaving gifts in full view of the windows, keep cash within the home to a minimum and don’t advertise on social media that you are leaving your property unoccupied to visit friends and relatives.

“If you do have any concerns or notice strange behaviour or suspicious vehicles in the area please notify police.”

Anyone with information that can assist police with their ongoing inquiries is asked to contact 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.