Citadel - Bringing Down Burglary
Citadel is a forcewide initiative aimed at driving down the number of burglaries committed in the force area.
Burglary of people's homes and catching the criminals who commit these offences is a high priority for the Chief Constable and the force. In conjunction with the Police Authority, we have set ourselves stringent targets to ensure that no more than 10 burglaries a day are committed across Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Worcestershire.
While burglary levels remain low compared to other parts of the country, there have been around 140 more burglaries this year against the targets we have set. That's why we've launched Citadel to drive burglary rates back down to where we expect them to be.
We're using a variety of tactics to target known or suspected criminals and these are already having results: since April, we have arrested more than 600 people, many of whom when convicted will be sent to jail.
How you can help
DonTo reduce your changes of being burgled you need to:
- Make sure your windows and doors are locked and secure
- Put a light on when you go out to give the impression that someone is in
- Report suspicious activity in your neighbourhood - call us on 101 if you see something unusual or you suspect someone you know might be involved in burglary
- Help us find people wanted for burglary - visit the West Mercia Wanted website and tell us if you've seen any of the people listed.
Remember that if a home has been burgled near to where you live, your chances of becoming a victim increase - so take action to make sure you're not next.
Find out more
Visit our Home Security Advice Centre to find out more about how you can keep your property safe, including details of security marking products, garden shed and allotment security, simple home improvements that can deter burglars and information of what to do if you have been burgled.
You can also get more security tips and information about our successes in tackling burglary by following our special Twitter account, @CitadelBurglary.