POLICE are reporting an increase in gold thefts in Slough during Diwali celebrations.

Thames Valley Police are warning families across the borough to be vigilant during the festive period due to an increase in burglaries over recent days.

They said many victims have been of South Asian (Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi) heritage, as these communities are sometimes known to hold gold for cultural reasons.

READ MORE: Crime data map for Slough during September

Although the numbers of family gold burglaries are currently low in Slough, they have had reports come through in the last week.

As such, police are issuing advice on what residents can do to protect themselves and their valuables from being stolen.

Here's how to protect your gold and jewellery.

  • When not in use consider storing your valuables securely in a safety deposit box or bank vault.
  • Add other security measures such as CCTV, alarms and security marking your jewellery with a forensic marking product.
  • Don’t advertise your jewellery or when you are away online – don’t post photos of your jewellery on social media, and be careful mentioning holidays or extended absences from home.
  • Avoid posting about weddings, festivals and other celebrations where someone may be able to identify that you are not at home or that you own high value jewellery.
  • When wearing jewellery for a special event, keep it covered until you are indoors and with people you trust.
  • It is possible that thieves may follow expensive cars from workplaces, restaurants or places of worship. Try to park your vehicle in a secure area, or vary where you park.