Police are investigating a series of 50 burglaries linked to groups described as 'traveller burglary squads' operating across London and the Home Counties. The incidents, which have occurred in affluent neighborhoods, involve suspects breaking into homes and stealing valuables including cash, jewelry, and vehicles.
Footage from door cameras has captured suspects using crowbars to force entry into homes. One incident involved a group stealing keys to a £100,000 Mercedes. David McKelvey, a former Metropolitan Police detective, reported that the burglaries began in early September and have primarily targeted high-end areas such as Hampstead and Highgate.
McKelvey indicated that the gang consists of Irish travellers operating in teams of three or four, striking up to 15 properties daily, excluding Sundays. He noted that some suspects may have prior burglary convictions and were released under an early release scheme.
The first burglary linked to this group occurred on September 11 in Highgate. Multiple incidents have since been reported, with five burglaries or attempted burglaries in Highgate on September 30 alone.
McKelvey criticized the Metropolitan Police for dismantling dedicated burglary squads, suggesting that this has contributed to the rise in these offenses. He stated that residents are fearful of becoming victims of these violent intrusions.
The Metropolitan Police acknowledged the impact of burglary on victims and stated that they are actively investigating the reported incidents, working to identify and disrupt organized criminal activity. They urged anyone with information to contact them. No injuries have been reported, and no arrests have been made in connection with these burglaries.