POLICE are urging residents in a Barrhead housing estate to be extra vigilant after a number of homes were targeted by would-be thieves.

The warning was issued after officers were alerted to prowlers attempting to gain access to houses in the Springhill Meadows development.

It comes just six months after a family, who were one of the first to move into new Miller Homes properties in Springhill Road, were left heartbroken when they discovered they had been targeted by crooks.

On that occasion, thieves smashed their way in through a patio window before making off with jewellery and Christmas gifts.

They also stole the family’s car, which was later found abandoned and burned-out.
Police are now staging patrols in the area as investigations into the latest incidents continue.

Inspector Bryan McGeogh told the Barrhead News: “We are aware of several incidents in the Barrhead area where members of the public are reporting people who are acting suspiciously through the night.

“Please be assured that all lines of enquires are being followed up and officers are carrying out patrols in the area.

“In the meantime, I would ask people to be extra vigilant and, if you do see anyone acting suspiciously, please do not hesitate to contact us on 101 – or, in the case of an emergency, dial 999.”

Councillor Paul Aitken, who represents Barrhead, Liboside and Uplawmoor, has said he will be liaising with police in East Renfrewshire in a bid to offer extra reassurance to residents.

He added: “It is very disappointing to hear of these attempted break-ins in Barrhead.

“I will be liaising with Police Scotland and asking that they deploy more resources in those areas.”

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