DETECTIVES are investigating a spate of burglaries at homes and commercial premises at the weekend.

The break-ins happened between last Saturday (12th January) on Sunday (13th January) are appealing for information and witnesses.

As a result, detectives have urged the public to step up their security around their homes, making sure windows and doors are locked and any CCTV systems are in working order.

Detective Sergeant Leighanne Miller said: “Just after 9 am on Monday (14th January) it was reported that entry had been forced to commercial premises in the Ballybollen Road area in Ahoghill.

“A silver-coloured power-washer, two electric fencers, clothing and seven pairs of boots and a number of torches were reported stolen.

“A Volvo – VRM XKZ 5568 – was also reported stolen. It’s believed this occurred sometime between 12:30pm on Sunday 13th January and 8:15am on Monday , 14th January.

“We believe some type of vehicle, such as a low loader, would have been required to remove the vehicle and items.

“Around 12:40 pm on Monday afternoon, it was reported a power washer and a leaf blower were stolen from a property in the Grange Road area of Antrim, sometime between 5:30pm on Sunday night and 8am  the next morning.

“At 3:20 pm on Monday, it was reported entry had been forced to a shed at an address in the Ballybollen Road area of Ahoghill and a wooden car trailer, 6′ x 4′, a hedge cutter, a tractor battery and a set of jump leads were stolen. #

“It’s believed this occurred sometime overnight, possible around 1 am.

“We believe these three burglaries are linked at this time, and I want to appeal to anyone who was in any of these areas around these times and saw any strange activity, or vehicles in the area, or who is offered tools or a Volvo car similar to those reported stolen to get in touch with us.

“I also want to make an appeal about the report of a burglary at a house in the Braidvalley View area of Broughshane around 6:50pm on Monday (14th January).

“It’s believed entry was forced to the property sometime between 9am and 6pm, and a sum of money was reported stolen.

“A vehicle was seen acting suspiciously in the area earlier that day.

“Anyone with information about any of these burglaries in the Ahoghill area is asked to call us on the non emergency number 101, quoting reference number 265 of 14/01/19.

“Anyone with information about the burglary in the Braidvalley View area is asked to call  on the non emergency number 101, quoting reference number 1136 of 14/01/19.”

Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.

Detective Sergeant Miller is also appealing to home and business owners to protect their properties.

DS Miller added: “Please ensure that all houses, sheds and garages are secured, particularly during the hours of darkness.

“Do not keep valuables or large amounts of cash in your home, and remember, safes are able to be removed.

“Do not leave any tools/ladders outside which can be used to access your property.

“Do not answer the door during the hours of darkness unless you are expecting someone or you have a security latch and can check identity first.

“Keep an eye on your property and please report to the police any suspicious callers or vehicles.

“This includes cold callers or services being offered at inflated prices.

“If you do have CCTV systems, please ensure that they are working, and please look out for elderly/vulnerable neighbours and check on them regularly.”

If you would like further advice on home security you can contact your local Crime Prevention Officer on 101.

Report any suspicious activity/concerns to 101 and in the case of an emergency please call 999.