NORTH Wales Police is urging people to take 'easy' steps to ensure they do not become victims of crime.

Inspector Steve Owens, of the South Flintshire policing team, said the force has launched the 'Big Easy' steps for people to take to prevent crime.

This comes after several burglaries and thefts across the county.

The Inspector told the Leader they are looking for information following four incidents overnight on Monday, April 15 in the Buckley area.

Two houses were targeted and personal belongings taken from Avendale Road and Holly Close.

In nearby areas, two unlocked motor vehicles were also targeted.

Inspector Owens said: "People have been leaving things like handbags and purses on show which can be seen from windows.

"I know it's in their house but they are leaving them on view.

"The Big Easy steps will help people protect their personal belongings. Caravans this time of year especially will be hard hit. There will be a rack of incidents involving caravans as we get into summer.

"The thefts and burglaries in Buckley, I can't say if they are connected or not. They are trying insecure cars and we believe it's opportunists, we do think the two burglaries are connected.

"We've launched a new operation to crack down on this, with the tasking team, called operation Blue Ladder

"We believe these people go around trying door handles.

"Anyone with CCTV footage or who may have seen anything, let us know."

The four incidents occurred overnight on April 15 and anyone with information can contact police on 101, quoting ref X051214 for the burglary at Avendale Road and X051220 for Holly Close.

The Big Easy steps, which include tips to help prevent crime, can be found on the North Wales Police website.