In the summer, burglary cases are high, and the police recruited to prevent theft

Summer Theft Spikes

Since May, a group of suspects has been seen riding motorcycles in the Old City District of Xinyang. One member would distract the shopkeeper by pretending to buy something, while others would sneak in and steal from the store. On July 5th, during a patrol near Hemei Square, officers encountered an unusual case that left them puzzled. The situation seemed chaotic, with strange behavior and unclear motives. However, it was later revealed that this group had targeted small shops with only one employee on duty. They would split up, with one person drawing attention while others committed the theft. These incidents occurred in areas like Phoenix New World and Beijing Road, resulting in nearly 10,000 yuan in stolen cash.

In response, the investigation team at the Old City Branch of the Xinyang Public Security Bureau reported that from late May to early July, they successfully dismantled four theft gangs and arrested nearly 30 individuals.

Police Offer Anti-Theft Tips

To help residents protect themselves, the police have shared several practical anti-theft measures:

First, if an electric vehicle is stolen, it should be reported immediately. It's important to develop the habit of removing keys and locking the bike when parking. Whenever possible, electric bicycles should be stored in designated parking areas. Also, purchasing vehicles through legitimate channels is crucial, as there is a high demand for stolen or illegal second-hand vehicles, making them prime targets for theft. Buying from unknown sources can lead to legal issues if the vehicle is later seized by authorities.

During summer evenings, when people go out for walks, it's essential to always lock the front door, even if they're away for just a short time. Many older residential buildings use traditional locks without additional security features. Before going to bed, residents should make sure to lock the "hidden" latch and check the window latches and balcony doors made of aluminum alloy. These steps can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins.

Thieves often target cash and small valuables. To stay safe, citizens should keep large sums of money in a secure location at home and store valuable items in a safe. If leaving a room unattended, make sure to close the doors and windows to prevent opportunistic thefts, such as "fishing" through open windows.

Residents living on lower floors, especially those on the first floor, should consider installing anti-theft nets or reinforced windows. When choosing materials, it's best to go for stronger, more durable options that are harder for thieves to break through.

Lastly, neighbors should look out for each other. If someone is going away for an extended period, ask neighbors to keep an eye on the house. Report any suspicious activity to the police immediately.