Rise in burglaries in Burgum; municipality and police warn residents

The Municipality of Tytsjerksteradiel and the police are warning residents about a sharp rise in the number of home burglaries in Burgum. In recent weeks, residents aged 70 and older with a landline have been the primary targets. In several cases, unknown individuals called pretending to be emergency responders or employees of an organization, after which they attempted to gain access to the home.

Community Police Officer Bert Sietzema: “We are seeing a clear increase in this type of burglary. Criminals are deliberately targeting elderly residents. We are therefore asking residents to be extra vigilant and to call 112 if they suspect anything.”

Prevention Week: June 15–21

To help residents better protect themselves, the municipality is organizing a crime prevention week from June 15 through 21. During this week, residents can visit various locations for advice on burglary prevention.

Visitors can chat with prevention specialists from the municipality and the police while enjoying a cup of coffee.

  • Wednesday, June 17 (9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.) – Shopping center in Gytsjerk
  • Thursday, June 18 (9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.) – Shopping center in Hurdegaryp
  • Friday, June 19 (9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.) – The Market Square in Burgum

Free Home Safety Check: Police-Certified Safe Home Program

On these days, residents can sign up for a free home security check conducted by a specialist from the Police Safe Home Certification (PKVW). During this check, the specialist will assess how the home can be made more secure. After registration, a selection will be made; not all homes are eligible.

Tips for Preventing Burglaries

  • Never let strangers into your home without a good reason
  • Hang up on suspicious calls
  • Call 112 immediately if you notice anything suspicious 
  • Ask your neighbors to keep an eye out for anything suspicious
  • Visit politie.nl for more tips.

Mayor Kanter Breuker urges residents to stay vigilant and take advantage of the resources available: “Residents should feel safe in their own homes. With this campaign, we are helping to reduce risks and keep residents vigilant.”