Police reveal burglars' trick

Police are warning of a new burglary trick in which thieves leave a small piece of wood – like a matchstick – wedged strategically in house gates so they can see if the house is occupied.

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The matchstick will drop off if the gate is opened but if it is still in place after a few days the burglars know no one has been in and the property is a prime target as they are unlikely to be disturbed. The stick is light so the noise of it falling goes unnoticed.

Police in the Ile-de-France first spotted the trick and said residents should be aware and report any instances.

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