A rash of break-and-enters targeting homes that back onto greenspaces, trails and wooded areas could be the work of international crime groups, according to Waterloo Regional Police. In a news release on Monday, they said they are looking into a recent trend where suspects break into homes through the back of the property while the residents are away. “Investigators have identified individuals linked to organized crime networks, primarily originating from South America and Eastern Europe, who travel to Canada to commit property-related offences. These individuals may be responsible for multiple break-ins before leaving the country,” the release said. Typically, cash, jewelry, designer handbags, accessories and other high-end items were taken. Police are currently investigating at least three incidents between Oct. 16 and Oct. 17 in the Lands Court and Chase Crescent area of Cambridge. A RAV4 was seen circling the area and investigators believe it could be linked to the break-ins. Anyone who has security cameras in the Lands Court, Chase Crescent, Henwood Drive, Porter Crescent, Weir Street and Baldwin Drive areas are asked to check their videos for anything suspicious, particularly between 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. on Oct. 16. In the meantime, homeowners are reminded to keep all doors and windows properly locked and to let trusted neighbours know if they will be away for an extended period of time. Police also encouraged property owners to consider installing security cameras.
