Like every year at this time, the police are seeing an increase in burglaries in our homes. Lured by the gifts that pile up in our home, helped by the lack of light, thieves do not hesitate to enter your home. To avoid a bad surprise a few days before the holidays or even the day after New Year’s Eve, the police therefore issue a series of tips.
The police numbers are clear. Although the overall number of burglaries is decreasing (34,140 in 2021 compared to 56,562 in 2016), the months of December and January still experience a significant increase compared to the rest of the year.
Jennifer Leroy is a strategic analyst at the Germinalt police zone which brings together the municipalities of Gerpinnes, Montigny-le-Tilleul, Ham-sur-Heure/Nalinnes and the town of Thuin: “There is an increase in burglaries during this period Firstly because there is less light in the streets but also because it is the end of the year celebrations. And so on December 24, 25 and 31, people are away from their homes and burglars take advantage of the windfall.”
The observation is the same before the end of year celebrations, since the gifts are piling up under the trees or in our cupboards.
Among the loot preferred by thieves, jewelry of course, but also cash or even everything related to computers and game consoles. Even branded clothing is targeted because it sells easily second-hand.