Littleborough residents concerned over increase in burglaries

Littleborough residents are growing concerned as reports of burglaries in the area "seem to have increased".

Residents state that since New Year’s Eve, there has been an increase in incidents that involve people breaking into a property whether someone is home or not.

Janice Percy, who lives on Stubley Lane in Littleborough, said: “What is concerning to me is that they are prepared to enter the houses even if people are in and confront them. From my understanding this has increased since New Year’s Eve and I think people need to be aware of what is going on.”

Residents have been alerting people to incidents and at least seven incidents have been discussed over the last few weeks.

Nina Brittain said: “I’m concerned for those in Littleborough who don’t know what’s been going on, not being extra vigilant and not aware of any potential danger following the attack. I’ve just looked on the GMP website and it is not mentioned anywhere about what’s been happening, so it appears that the police don’t see this as a concern.”

Andrew Jenkinson said: “There are still a lot of people without social media and so may not be aware that there is so much criminal activity in the area and seeing as the thieves are being as blatant as walking into houses when they are occupied to steal, surely it’s only a matter of time before the crimes turn into something much worse than theft. Communities shouldn’t be left to panic and it seems that at the minute people are only finding out due to postings on social media.”

Many residents describe three young men being seen at the incidents with one man being assaulted when he tried to disturb the offenders in his back garden.

Others have had their houses “ransacked” and items stolen including “jewellery, purses and cash”.

Janice added: “I would be interested in setting up some sort of public meeting because I am not aware of any Neighbourhood Watch Scheme. It is not like Littleborough to be targeted this way.”

Greater Manchester Police has not responded to a request for comment.