Greater Manchester Police has issued a burglary alert and asked residents to change their habits.

Bolton North Neighbourhood Sergeant Zach Keneally has promised that the force will investigate every burglary reported and to ‘relentlessly pursue’ suspects.

The neighbourhood sergeant asked residents to ensure that their windows and doors are secure overnight, to avoid becoming a victim of burglary.

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He said: “We are currently investigating a number of residential burglaries in the Bolton area that have been committed when doors have been left unlocked overnight.

“We are also investigating a number of attempted residential burglaries, where the burglar hasn't been successful getting into the house as the door has been locked.

“Please remember to check that all your windows and doors are secure overnight to prevent yourself becoming a victim of burglary.

“As the days stay light longer and the weather improves (hopefully!), it is important to remember to keep your windows locked when you are not in the room.

“Make sure the only thing you're letting through your open window is fresh air. If you are in the garden, make sure your windows and doors are locked.

“It is unacceptable for anybody to feel unsafe in their own home and this is why burglary is a priority for us.

“We hope you are never broken into, but if you are, we will be there for you. We promise to investigate every burglary crime reported to us and relentlessly pursue those suspected to be involved.

“You can find more crime prevention advice on our website.

 “If you have any information regarding crime, you can contact the independent charity, CrimeStoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their website.

 “We have been provided with lots of CCTV footage from residents in response to the burglaries and we would like to thank you for your continued support.”

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Latest appeal just month after spate of incidents

The appeal comes just a month after officers warned residents of the dangers of ‘lock snap’ burglaries – following a spate of incidents in Harwood.

This week police appealed for information after burglaries and attempted burglaries in Westhoughton and Horwich.

Lock snapping involves breaking a cylinder in two by applying force and exposing the internal mechanism.

According to locksmiths Lock & Key Centre, the technique involves criminals exploiting a weakness in the internal lock to make it easier to access the mechanism.

Anti-snap locks are now available, which are strengthened with a pin and designed to only snap along a predetermined line, the company says – making it harder to access the mechanism.

If you have a story, I cover the whole borough of Bolton. Please get in touch at jack.fifield@newsquest.co.uk.