Police update on shed break-ins at Southampton allotment

Police update on shed break-ins at Southampton allotment

Good afternoon everyone,

We hope you're all well.

Some of you may be aware of several reports of shed break-ins at the Witts Hill allotment on Summit Way in Southampton.

We received a number of reports this morning (Wednesday 18 September) that sheds had been broken into. Damage was caused and various items were taken from some of the sheds.

Police have visited the site to carry out enquiries today, and the local neighbourhood officers for the area are continuing their ongoing work to disrupt and tackle this issue, which includes working with Southampton City Council on CCTV which has now been installed in the area.

While we continue our enquiries, we are keen to hear from you if you've seen anything suspicious in the area. You can report online via our website, or by calling 101 quoting the reference number 44240400550.

We will be at the Bitterne triangle tomorrow (Thursday 19 September) from midday if anyone would like to come down and speak to us about these crimes, or indeed any concerns or questions they may have.

Residents are also very welcome to come along and speak to us at our next PACT (Police and Communities Together) meeting on Monday 30 September between 12 and 1pm. This will take place at the Oasis Hub, 47 Melchet Road, SO18 5GH.

Please see below for some simple ways you can help to keep your shed secure:

Think like a thief – Take a look at your shed and consider how you would break in. It’s worth having a good padlock on the door with no exposed screws. Pay attention to hinges, as these are sometimes easily removable. If you have windows then these could be vulnerable unless they’re secured with wire mesh or grills. And keep it locked at all times.

Alarm it - Consider a battery-operated shed alarm. They look low key but they respond to movement or door contact with an extremely loud siren.

Lock it, hide it or mark it - Don’t give them the opportunity or the tools to commit a crime. Lock everything away securely. Tools can be locked inside a locker or box or secured with a chain. Property mark your items and take photographs of them. Some tools can be painted with your name or postcode and forensic marking is also an option. You can also register any item that has a serial number with Immobilise.

For more advice please visit our website.

Reply to this message

Message Sent By
Danielle Butler
(Police, Corporate Communications Officer, Hampshire)