FOUR MEN have been arrested following a string of burglaries across Hampshire including two where homeowners were tied up and threatened.

Southampton men aged 29, 36, 48 and 53 are being quizzed by officers after eight warrants were executed at addresses in Southampton, Eastleigh and Hedge End today.

They came after burglaries in West End, Bishops Waltham and Hambledon.

As previously reported by the Daily Echo, a retired couple were tied up and threatened during a burglary at their home in West End on August 6.

Jewellery, watches and firearms were taken from the address.

Another burglary took place during the early hours of September 3, when entry was forced to a house in Bishops Waltham and items of china along with other antiques were stolen.

Finally at around 2am on October 9, three men entered a house in Hambledon and tied up two women aged 90 and 27.

Antique items of jewellery and silver were targeted.

Detective Superintendent Victoria Dennis from the Hampshire Major Investigation team said: “Each of these burglaries would have been very frightening for the victims involved.

“We have previously appealed for witnesses for these three burglaries separately but following extensive enquiries we are now treating them as linked.

“We are taking these incidents very seriously and have made a number of arrests today as part of our ongoing investigation.

“We are still appealing for witnesses and would urge anyone with information to contact us so that we can bring those responsible for these terrifying incidents to justice and recover stolen property.”

Anyone with information about these incidents should contact the Hampshire Major Investigation team quoting Operation Watch by calling 101. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.