BURGLARS are targeting homes in one of the most upmarket areas of Southampton.

More than a dozen homes have been raided in the Bassett area in the space of a month.

Police are on the trail of the thieves who have struck at 16 properties.

Where the burglars have struck

In some cases the burglars have broken into homes during the night while residents are sleeping.

However, break-ins have been reported at all times of the day and now police are appealing for help from the community to help capture those responsible.

Since the beginning of April 16 burglaries have been reported that officers believe have all been committed by the same people. In most cases small electrical items including mobile phones and laptops are being taken.

Thieves are also stealing computer consoles including Wii and hand held devices. Police are urging residents to step up security in light of the recent spate of break-ins.

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Helen Ward of Southampton’s Burglary Investigation Team, said: “We have identified this series of burglaries within quite a small area.

“We are doing a lot of work in the communities where these burglaries have been focused and are urging homeowners to be mindful of their security and report any suspicious behaviour.”

A team of officers are now working on the hunt for the burglars that is being codenamed Operation Primal.

Anyone with information can contact the team led by PC Mike Barnett on 023 8059 9997.