POLICE have issued a CCTV image of a suspected thief as they target an increasing number of shed and garage burglaries in Hull.
Thieves broke into an average of ten properties a day in the city last month – compared with an average of six a day last year.
Officers investigating the rise in burglaries have released a CCTV image of a man suspected of attempting to steal from a shed in east Hull.
The man was caught on camera as he attempted to break into the garage in Winchester Avenue on May 5.
He was disturbed by the owners and ran away empty-handed.
Detective Sergeant Lee Shaffi, of the city's priority crime team, said: "We have seen a recent rise in the number of shed and garage burglaries across the city and we are prioritising the investigation and reduction of these offences.
"Part of tackling the problem is the need for the community to identify those responsible and contact police."
Police also want to hear from people who believe they may have been offered stolen goods.
They are also encouraging householders to lock sheds and garages and mark any valuable property.
Det Sgt Shaffi said: "Bicycles account for the greatest number of items being stolen and we need to know if people suspect they have been offered a stolen bicycle for sale.
"We would encourage owners to make sure their sheds and garages are properly secured and any items of value are security-marked and registered on the online database Immobilise.
"The local neighbourhood policing team can also offer help and advice regarding security and property marking."
Anyone with information about the man pictured, or any other crime, should call Humberside Police on 101.
