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Over the past five years, Thames Valley Police have significantly increased their focus on tackling burglary across Buckinghamshire and Berkshire – areas served by Templewood Security Systems.

Despite a number of targeted operations and proactive policing strategies, burglary remains a serious concern for local residents and businesses, with both domestic and commercial premises being targeted by burglars.

According to publicly available data, Thames Valley has recorded over 42,000 burglaries across residential and commercial premises from 2019 to 2024.

While some years showed a slight decline during COVID lockdowns, burglary rates have since rebounded – particularly in affluent and rural areas.

Thames Valley Police Step Up Burglary Operations – But Crime Remains a Major Local Threat

Burglary Stats: A Persistent Problem

According to publicly available data, Thames Valley has recorded over 42,000 burglaries across residential and commercial premises from 2019 to 2024. While some years showed a slight decline during COVID lockdowns, burglary rates have since rebounded – particularly in affluent and rural areas.

In 2023 alone, there were approximately 7,800 reported burglaries across the force area, with nearly 60% targeting private residential homes. Commercial premises, including offices, farms, and retail units, also remain prime targets, especially outside of business hours.

Policing Response: Operations and Resources

Thames Valley Police have launched a number of named anti-burglary operations in recent years, including Operation Rowlock and Operation Hundred, focusing on intelligence-led patrols, forensic analysis, and rapid response teams. These efforts have involved between 80 and 120 officers annually assigned specifically to burglary investigations and preventative policing, supported by plain-clothes surveillance teams and mobile CCTV units.

Each year, the force runs 40 to 70 targeted burglary operations, including covert stakeouts, property marking initiatives, and door-to-door community engagement campaigns.

Despite their best efforts, Thames Valley Police have acknowledged the limitations of resources and the importance of preventative measures by homeowners and business owners.

Hotspots and Common Targets

Suburban homes with minimal visible security, unoccupied houses during holidays, and small business units with basic or outdated alarms are among the most commonly targeted properties. Thieves are becoming increasingly opportunistic, often exploiting back gardens, side gates, and poorly lit areas.

Detective Chief Inspector Rob Hood of Thames Valley Police recently noted:

“We’re doing everything possible to reduce burglary across the region, but property owners must also take responsibility. Simple upgrades like CCTV, modern alarms, and access control systems act as both deterrent and evidence tools.”

A Wake-Up Call for Home and Business Owners

At Templewood Security Systems, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact of burglary – from emotional distress to financial loss. We’re urging local residents and businesses to take security seriously.

With the rise in organised crime gangs and repeat offences, now is the time to install or upgrade your security setup. Our NSI Gold-approved systems – including smart intruder alarms, monitored CCTV, and access control – are trusted by hundreds of property owners across the Thames Valley.

Templewood Security Systems are NSI Gold Approved and have been installing and maintaining state-of-the-art security solutions for businesses throughout Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and the surrounding areas since 1990, including state-of-the-art:

> Intruder Alarms
> CCTV
> Access Controls
> 24x7 Remote Monitoring & Response Services

These measures act as a strong, front-line deterrent to would-be criminals and high quality CCTV footage can provide valuable evidence for law enforcement in cases of shoplifting, fraud, harassment, vandalism, unauthorised access or other incidents - helping to identify offenders, corroborate witness statements and support insurance claims.

Whether you are managing existing retail premises or opening new (or refurbished) outlets, our experienced team of specialist security solution engineers are able to carry out a comprehensive security assessment and make recommendations on how to update and upgrade your security protection.

To arrange your free site survey and no-obligation quote with one of our expert security engineers, please complete the form below:

A modern, smart security system ultimately provides a combination of convenience, peace of mind, and protection, making it a thoroughly worthwhile investment for business owners and homeowners alike. It is also very much worth considering the fact that the installation of the right security systems can also result in significant saving on your insurance.

Templewood Security Systems are Buckinghamshire and Berkshire’s leading Smart Security Systems business delivering peace of mind to local customers for well over 30 years. Call us today on 01753 648 330 our use our CONTACT FORM to arrange a home security review and find out more about our Smart Security Solutions.

Author: Lloyd Marriot, Director, Templewood Security Systems Ltd

Date: 1st February 2025

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