An observant resident alerted the police around 03:00 this morning about a suspicious situation involving a BMW, which was ultimately broken into. The police immediately responded with multiple units. A search was conducted in the Zuiderburen district for suspicious individuals. This search eventually led to two individuals who had hidden themselves in bushes. Nearby, officers later found a suspicious vehicle containing possibly stolen goods. The two men were arrested. There is also an investigation into whether there is a connection with other burglaries in Northern Netherlands.

Dozens of reports
We are also investigating nearly ten other reports of burglaries in BMWs over the past week. These reports come from places including Veendam, Wildervank, Drachten, Eelderwolde, and Frieschepalen. At the end of February and the beginning of March, we also received about twenty reports of burglaries in BMWs from the vicinity of Bolsward, Workum, Sneek, and Grou. In all cases, burglars targeted valuable parts, such as the steering wheel, dashboard with navigation and multimedia equipment, and airbags. The damage from these thefts can amount to thousands of euros. We previously indicated that we are considering mobile banditry. These are internationally traveling criminals who commit crimes to earn money.

Call the police in suspicious situations
Investigations show that thieves often conduct reconnaissance, usually on foot or by bike. Generally, they strike during the night hours. They do this quickly and cleverly. Often, the thieves are busy for less than ten minutes. We also urge everyone to be alert to suspicious situations. Do you see or hear suspicious individuals near a vehicle? For example, during a possible reconnaissance or an actual burglary? Call the police at 112. If you have other information about suspicious situations, but it is not urgent, call 0900-8844.

Stay alert
The investigation into the two arrested suspects is still ongoing. It is unclear whether there is involvement in other burglaries. We are investigating that. We continue to urge everyone to stay alert. BMW owners should ideally park their cars in a garage. Otherwise, we advise parking these cars in a well-monitored location with camera surveillance. Well-lit areas tend to have more people around in the evenings, and suspicious situations are noticed earlier. Always remove your valuable belongings from the car and always lock the car.