Teenager from Crowborough arrested after garage break-ins in Eastbourne

Residents with garages and outbuildings are being urged to keep their property secure and prevent thieves.

Police have recently seen a rise in reports of thefts of high-value bicycles from garages and outbuildings across the area.

Following multiple reports of break-ins at properties in Cliff Road and Pashley Road on 10 and 11 February, a 20-year-old man from Eastbourne and a 14-year-old boy from Crowborough have been arrested on suspicion of going equipped for burglary. They have been released on conditional bail until 11 May while the investigation continues.

Inspector Sarah Taylor, of the Eastbourne Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We are acutely aware of the impact that this recent spate of thefts has had on our local community, and are continuing to work to tackle the issue.

“We encourage everyone to check that their garages and outbuildings are safe and secure, and report any suspicious activity to police, quoting Operation Dismount.”

Further tips to prevent theft include:

• Ensure outbuildings are locked securely with padlocks and consider an alarm.
• Consider installing CCTV.
• Cover high-value possessions with an old sheet or blanket to hide them from view.
• Consider moving high-value possessions to a safer location.
• Check garages and outbuildings regularly.

Anyone with relevant information is asked to report online or via 101 quoting Operation Dismount.

Officers are specifically appealing for any CCTV or ring doorbell footage of the Cliff Road and Pashley Road area between 10pm on 10 February and 6am on 11 February.

Alternatively, details can be passed anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers online or on 0800 555 111.

Always call 999 in an emergency.