Shocked Oswestry family disturbs burglary gang in their house
A gang of five masked burglars fled when they were disturbed by the shocked family of the Oswestry house they had broken into.
Police believe the incident may be linked to other burglaries in Hanwood and Hampton Bank in Welshampton, near Ellesmere, as well as suspicious activity in Priorslee, Telford.
The Oswestry householders disturbed a group of men inside the property in Hawthorne Grove and the raiders ran over over neighbours' gardens to escape.
The frightening incident saw police, including dog handlers, swoop on the area but nobody has yet been arrested.
West Mercia Police said it is now increasing patrols in the area and officers are appealing for help in finding the intruders.
Neighbours took to Facebook after seeing men jumping over 6ft fences through gardens before disappearing in the Holly Green area.
One said there were five masked intruders and said a small black Audi was believed to be involved.
Officers say the frightened Oswestry family raised the alarm after getting home at about 8pm on Monday to find men inside their house.
Inspector Tracy Ryan said: "The householders disturbed a group of males when they returned home.
"They ran off and there was no confrontation between them and the offenders.
"A number of officers were quickly on the scene, including dog handlers," she added.
A search of the area was made and police also carried out house to house inquiries.
"We will be increasing patrols in the area to provide reassurance. If anyone saw anything suspicious or can help us find these people we would love to hear from them and would urge anyone to may be able to help to contact police on 101," Inspector Ryan said.
In Telford on Monday police took to social media over reports that a group of young men were acting suspiciously in the Priorslee area.
The Telford and Wrekin Cops Facebook page said: We have had several reports of a Black Audi A3 in Priorslee today.
"The passengers described as youths with baseball caps were seen looking into properties In Priorslee. No burglary reported as yet but nonetheless a suspicious Incident. if you have any information that may help identify this vehicle please call 101."
Detectives believe the men may be linked to the burglaries and are appealing for information about their identity.
Anyone with information is asked to contact on 101 quoting reference OIC2381 or phoning Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
