A man in his 30s has been arrested following a report of a suspicious man in the rear of a property in the Paxton Street area of east Belfast at approximately 11.15pm yesterday evening, Wednesday 9th April.

Officers attended and the man was arrested on suspicion of going equipped for burglary. He remains in police custody at this time.

A second man is believed to have made off on a bicycle.

Anyone who may have seen the men in the area or anyone with CCTV, doorbell or other footage that could assist with enquiries is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference 2090 09/04/25.

You can also make a report online at https://www.psni.police.uk/report/incident, or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Chief Inspector Dunne said: “As we enter the summer period police in east Belfast are encouraging the public to review their household security.

“With longer and warmer evenings arriving it can be easy to let issues like crime prevention slip from our list of priorities. While all we want to do is relax, we are often unwittingly presenting would-be thieves with golden opportunities to strike.

“Leaving doors and windows open or unlocked is one common way people can leave themselves vulnerable to thieves – up to 50% of creeper style burglaries occur through an unlocked door or window. Establishing a routine that ensures you check your doors and windows before going to bed or leaving the house is one of the simplest steps you can take to protect your belongings.

“Consideration should also be given to installing a security alarm, cameras or sensor lights. Any of these could enhance home security and deter thieves. Many of us don’t consider the shed or garage when looking at ‘home’ security however the items they contain are often very expensive, such as lawnmowers and power tools. We would also recommend property marking such items with your postcode or other individual markings.

“Those planning a trip away this summer should also bear in mind the security of their home while they are away. Do not allow your home to look unoccupied while you are gone, as this is an open invitation to burglars. Remember to cancel any deliveries such as milk or newspapers, arrange for a friend to collect your post or bring in your bin and ensure you put away expensive garden furniture or barbecues before leaving. Timer switches for lights or radios can also give a house a ‘lived in’ look.

“Finally we would ask that neighbours look out for one another. You know your own neighbourhood best and will recognise anything that is out of the ordinary. Any unusual people or activity in your local area should be noted and reported to police on 101. By taking an interest in what goes on in your neighbourhood you could help prevent a crime. If you witness a crime in progress, call ‘999’.

Further Crime Prevention advice is available on our website www.psni.police.uk/advice_information/protecting-your-home