Students returning to Jesmond with their recently acquired Christmas presents are being warned by police not to advertise their property to thieves.

The number of offences committed in Jesmond from September to December last year rose considerably, prompting Northumbria Police to implement Operation Tailback – an initiative that has resulted in dozens of arrests and the recovery of stolen property.

But another strand of the campaign is to ensure residents, including students, are given advice on the prevention of further thefts, as many have occurred because of doors or windows simply being left open.

Neighbourhood Inspector Louise Cass-Williams told JesmondLocal: “Burglars know student homes have equipment in them and with everyone returning from their winter break they may have new items they were given for Christmas as well.

“It’s absolutely vital students don’t advertise their property to thieves. Tips include making sure doors to their room and house are locked, windows are secure and timer lights are set to come on during the afternoon and night when they might be out, so it looks like someone is in.

“They shouldn’t leave any empty boxes in the garden or yard and should make sure no valuable items are left in view or reach of windows and doors, this is particularly relevant if the student lives in a ground floor room.

“The operation includes undercover and high profile patrols at key times, property marking events and the use of posters, leaflets and Bluetooth to get the security message across.

“We’re also working hard to trace burglars and have them dealt with appropriately to prevent offences from happening and we’ve had some good success in relation to this.”

For more information about crime prevention advice, or to get your property marked, contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team on 101 ext 69191.