Thieves are targeting Fife homes in the search for bespoke Asian jewellery, police believe.
Several properties in Kirkcaldy, Dalgety Bay and Dunfermline have been raided in recent weeks, with items of gold jewellery taken.
Police are urging members of the public to remain vigilant, particularly those in the Hollybrae and Rowanbrae areas of Kirkcaldy, as they attempt to trace the culprits.
Detective Inspector Paul Dick of Kirkcaldy CID said: “We’ve had a number of recent housebreakings during which gold jewellery has been stolen and we believe that these properties have been targeted for this purpose.
“Having your home broken into is a very distressing experience and the residents have unfortunately lost property that has a sentimental value, as well as a monetary value.
“There have been an increased in both uniform and plain clothed patrols in these areas since the break-ins were reported and detectives continue to follow a number of lines of enquiry as part of our efforts to trace those responsible.
“We are asking the public, particularly in the Hollybrae and Rowanbrae areas, to be vigilant – especially as the nights become darker.
He added: “Always take images of any high value items as, should they be stolen, this will greatly assist the police in identifying the property should it be recovered.
“This is especially important with bespoke jewellery, which cannot typically be identified through a serial number.
“I’d strongly urge anyone who has high value jewellery to store this outwith their homes, such as at their local bank, or if this isn’t possible take all possible precautions to ensure this is stored securely and out of sight, such as in a safe which can be anchored.”
Anyone with information about the break-ins or the whereabouts of the stolen jewellery is urged to contact Kirkcaldy CID via 101.
