Bern Canton is experiencing a notable increase in burglaries, particularly as the darker winter months approach. Police statistics reveal a significant jump in incidents, with a low clearance rate leaving many perpetrators unapprehended. Residents are urged to take proactive measures to secure their homes and properties.
Key Takeaways
- Burglaries in Bern Canton rose significantly to 3693 cases in 2024.
- The clearance rate for burglaries remains low at only 17 percent.
- Incidents typically peak in October, November, and December, especially during twilight hours.
- Multi-family homes are frequent targets due to perceived anonymity.
- Simple security measures like locked doors and attentive neighbors can deter criminals.
Burglaries Increase as Winter Approaches
The transition to winter often brings a rise in criminal activity, particularly burglaries. Insurance companies, such as Axa, confirm that October, November, and December see the highest number of break-ins. This trend is already evident in Bern Canton.
In 2024, the canton recorded 3693 burglaries, a substantial increase from 2805 cases in 2023. These figures highlight a concerning pattern for residents and businesses alike. The Kantonspolizei Bern is expected to release the full 2025 statistics next spring, but current trends suggest continued vigilance is necessary.
A recent incident in Mühleberg underscores the brazen nature of some of these crimes. Thieves broke into a garage containing high-value vehicles, including BMWs, Mercedes models, and Porsches. When police arrived, the driver of the getaway car drove towards officers, prompting a shot to be fired. The suspects ultimately lost control of the vehicle and fled on foot, leaving authorities to pursue them.
Concerning Statistics
- 2023: 2805 burglaries in Bern Canton.
- 2024: 3693 burglaries in Bern Canton.
- Clearance Rate: Only 17 percent of burglaries are solved.
Understanding Burglary Types
Police distinguish between two main types of property invasion: burglaries and sneak-in thefts. A burglary involves forced entry, such as breaking a door or smashing a window. In contrast, a sneak-in theft occurs when criminals enter a property without resistance, for example, through an open window or unlocked door.
The 2024 police statistics for Bern Canton also reported an additional 1802 sneak-in thefts. This figure indicates that many incidents could be prevented by simply ensuring all entry points are secured, even for brief absences.
"Verstecken Sie Wohnungsschlüssel nie unter dem Türvorleger oder im Blumentopf – diese Verstecke kennen auch die Einbrecher." Jürg Thalmann, Mobiliar Spokesperson
Peak Times for Burglaries
During the colder months, burglaries most frequently occur during twilight hours. According to Mobiliar, these incidents typically happen between 5 PM and 9 PM. This period offers criminals the cover of darkness while many residents are still out for work or errands.
A well-lit property can act as a deterrent. Timed lighting or motion-activated lights can make a property less appealing to potential intruders.
Protecting Your Home and Property
The Kantonspolizei Bern emphasizes several straightforward security measures that residents can implement. The most fundamental advice is to always lock doors, windows, and side entrances, even if leaving for a short time. An open window is an invitation for a sneak-in theft.
Good neighborhood watch practices also contribute significantly to security. Informing trusted neighbors about extended absences and asking them to keep an eye on your home can be highly effective. A full mailbox or unemptied bins signal a vacant property, making it an easier target.
Tips for Deterring Burglars
- Always lock doors and windows, even for short absences.
- Use timed lighting or motion sensors to give the impression someone is home.
- Ask neighbors to collect mail and keep an eye on your property during absences.
- Avoid publicizing your absence on social media or with notes on doors.
- Never hide spare keys in obvious spots like under doormats or in flowerpots.
- Report suspicious individuals or activities immediately to the police.
Common Targets and Stolen Items
Burglars often seek anonymity, making multi-family homes a more frequent target than single-family houses, according to the Kantonspolizei. The items most commonly stolen are jewelry and cash, due to their high value and ease of transport.
Beyond private residences, businesses are also vulnerable. A recent incident in Schindellegi, Canton Schwyz, saw thieves make off with 150 musical instruments, including trumpets, saxophones, trombones, and guitars, valued at several hundred thousand francs. This shows that specialized items can also be high-value targets.
Organized Crime and Border Influence
The Federal Office for Police (Fedpol) highlights an increased presence of organized crime groups from France operating in Switzerland. These groups are involved in various criminal activities, including thefts, particularly from weapons stores, fraud, and armed robberies. In recent months, there has been a noticeable increase in burglaries at weapons shops across Switzerland, affecting cantons like Zurich, St. Gallen, Aargau, and Wallis.
One such case in Wallis involved at least three perpetrators fleeing in a vehicle registered in France. These cross-border operations pose additional challenges for local law enforcement.
Internationally, a high-profile case recently occurred in Paris, where thieves stole jewelry and valuables worth 88 million euros from the Louvre Museum. They gained access via a goods lift to a museum wing where the items were displayed. Police have since apprehended the suspected individuals.
These incidents, both local and international, underscore the importance of robust security measures and community vigilance to combat the rising tide of burglaries.