Police launch investigation after masked raiders attempt to break into two homes in Burnley and Pendle

Police were called this morning at around 3-30am to reports offenders had attempted to gain access to a house in Cobden Street, Briercliffe. Fortunately the occupants woke up and the offenders fled.

The second call came in just 40 minutes later, at 4-10am, when it was reported three men had gained access to an address on Forest Bank in Trawden. The men fled empty handed, but not before confronting the occupant and demanding car keys.

A third incident took place in West Yorkshire and police believe the incidents are linked.

The offenders are described as wearing black balaclavas and having eastern European accents.

Insp Andy Ainsworth, from the East Division Response Team, said: “An investigation has been launched and we are appealing for information about these incidents.

“If you saw or heard anything suspicious in the Briercliffe or Trawden areas overnight or if you have CCTV or dashcam which shows anything suspicious we would urge you to get in touch with us straight away.

“We appreciate these incidents will have caused concern in the area but our inquiries are very much underway and in the meantime we will have extra patrols in both areas. Anybody with concerns is welcome to speak to an officer.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting either log number 213 or 197 of December 13th.