Police officers were on the scene within minutes of a burglary in Castletown and are asking householders in the area to check their property.

The occupant of a house in Victoria Road disturbed the burglar shortly after 11pm on Saturday.

Inspector Derek Flint said: 'Officers were actually in pursuit and were very close to catching the offender. Unfortunately he has evaded capture in the area of The Abbey, Ballasalla.

'We believe that during the pursuit, the offender panicked and was trying to find a location to hide out. If you live in that area, please check your outbuildings and sheds for anything untoward, or any sign that something may have been disturbed. We may be able to gather some evidence from anything that is found.'

The number of burglaries since Friday January 9 stands at 27, including two break-ins at the weekend in Rhenwyllan Close, Port St Mary. Jewellery was taken from both properties.

Inspector Flint said: 'We really need to catch these individuals as soon as possible. The public play a big part in being those extra eyes and ears for the patrols that are out there on the ground, and the detectives that are working through the evidence to make sure the case against the offenders is as strong as it can be. Whether it is something that you see happening and you aren’t happy about, or a snippet that you’ve heard about someone being involved, ring us. We will do the rest.'

People are being reminded to take simple precautions.

Inspector Flint said: 'It’s important to remember that basic personal security precautions can go a long way to prevent you becoming a victim of crime. Make sure your house looks occupied even when you are out, by using lighting timers for example,
and also, get into the habit of locking your doors and windows. We still live in a very safe place. Let’s make it that bit harder for those that want to spoil it!'

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