Celebrity residents of Cheshire's affluent 'Golden Triangle' are facing a terrifying crime wave as sophisticated burglary gangs target their multi-million pound homes in coordinated attacks.
The latest high-profile victims include television personality Olivia Attwood and her footballer fiancé Bradley Dack, whose luxury mansion in the exclusive area was targeted by criminals while they were away from the property.
Operation Castle: Police Hunt Organised Gangs
Cheshire Constabulary has launched 'Operation Castle' to combat what they describe as highly organised criminal groups specifically targeting high-value properties across prestige postcodes including Alderley Edge, Wilmslow and Prestbury.
Detective Superintendent Kate Tomlinson revealed: "We're dealing with organised crime groups who are conducting reconnaissance on these properties. They're identifying high-value vehicles, looking for signs of occupancy, and specifically targeting homes when residents are away."
Celebrity Residents on High Alert
The area, known as Britain's answer to Beverly Hills, counts numerous Premier League footballers, television stars and business magnates among its residents. The targeting of high-profile figures like Attwood and Dack has sent shockwaves through the community.
Local security firms report a 40% increase in enquiries for upgraded security systems including thermal cameras, motion sensors and 24-hour monitoring services since the crime wave began.
Sophisticated Methods Employed
Investigators believe the gangs are using advanced techniques including:
- Drone surveillance to scout properties
- Signal jamming technology to disable alarms
- Social media monitoring to track residents' movements
- High-performance getaway vehicles
Detective Superintendent Tomlinson warned: "These aren't opportunistic crimes. They're planned with military precision by organised criminal networks who know exactly what they're looking for."
Security Advice for Residents
Police are urging residents to:
- Install forensic property marking like SmartWater
- Use timer switches for lights when away
- Avoid advertising travel plans on social media
- Consider installing reinforced doors and windows
- Join local neighbourhood watch schemes
The force has increased patrols in affected areas and is working with security companies to develop enhanced protection strategies for vulnerable properties.
