POLICE were called to a property in Highcliffe last night after reports of a burglary.

Officers, including armed response and a dog unit, were called at 10.37pm to Smugglers Lane North.

A man forced entry into a property by smashing a window. He was then challenged by a member of the public whom he threatened before running off.

 


The homeowner was away at the time.

A post on the Mudeford and Highcliffe Safer Neighbourhood team's Facebook page said the suspect made off in the direction of Forest Way and a police helicopter search was carried out in the area.

A Dorset Police spokesperson added: "No injuries were sustained as a result of the incident and it is not yet known whether anything has been stolen."

PC Andrew Morton of the Mudeford and Highcliffe Safer Neighbourhood Team said: “Current austerity measures are well documented; however residents should be reassured that a prompt police response will always be forthcoming.

“This was evident last night when as one of the first officers on scene, Christchurch police received further support from air support, armed response and a dog unit. Despite our positive response being assured, we would ask residents to help us and their fellow community members by remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious, unusual or out of character movements and behaviour.”

He added: “Please use 101 for non-urgent calls, or call 999 for emergencies or when a crime is in progress.  In addition, we encourage residents to speak to neighbours and inform them when their home is going to be empty, as well as to continually review their home security.

“Take steps to ensure your home and property are secure. Use measures to make your home look occupied and ensure all accessible windows and doors are not left insecure.

“Please contact a member of your Safer Neighbourhood Team if you would like home security advice or if you would like to help us and fellow service providers make your neighbourhood even safer.”

Anyone who witnessed suspicious behaviour in the area around the time of the incident is asked to contact police on 101 and quote incident number 11:458.