ASIAN families have been urged to keep their gold safe during the festive season of Diwali and Navaratri, as there is an increased risk of their valuables being targeted, police said.
Statistics released by the Metropolitan Police show that more than £50 million worth of gold and jewellery were stolen from communities across London in the past year.
The Asian community is particularly vulnerable, as they own considerable gold jewellery.
PC Nayna Bhudia of the Metropolitan Police said families should safeguard their gold and jewellery by either using a security deposit box with a company registered with the National Pawnbrokers Association or investing in a wall mounted security safe.
Other advice given to families includes taking photographs of valuables and considering installing CCTV cameras and burglar alarms.
If valuables are kept at home, it shouldn't be displayed openly, police said.
Families are also advised to photograph jewellery on white paper, write a detailed description of the item and get a valuation done as it will give the police a higher chance of tracing jewellery if they are stolen.
To find out more on how to protect yourself and your property, visit
www.met.police.uk/crimeprevention
