BURGLARY rates have doubled because of troublesome teen gangs, according to police.

Officers are urging parents to turn in their own children as they try to halt the worrying crime spree.

Before June, Basildon was experiencing on average up to three burglaries a day - but this has now doubled to six break-ins.

The borough is currently experiencing more burglaries than Southend, Castle Point and Rochford put together - which have on average four a day in total.

Det Supt Kevin Baldwin, from the south local policing area, said most of the break-ins are believed to be the work of troublesome teenagers. Some are understood to be known to one another, and are working together to steal belongings and even cars.

He called on parents to keeper a closer eye on their offspring - especially after dark.

He said: “We experienced a similar problem last year, where he had an increase during the summer of groups of youngsters going round committing offences by burgling homes and stealing cars.

“There are teenagers going around in groups working together, they are aged from about 16 through to their early twenties.

“We have our eye on particular people are we are continuing to go after those that are known to us.

“We have arrested and charged quite a few of who are going through the courts at the moment or who have been sentenced, but there are still youngsters out there who are prepared to go out and commit burglaries.

“Parents need to know where their children are at night. Anyone with information, please contact us.

“These people are causing real harm to our communities, they could be burgling your home next.”

Mr Baldwin urged residents to take precautions to deter thieves. He added: “Double lock your doors, and try not to leave car keys on show.

“If they can see the car keys through your front door, then they will try and get in.”

l Last week, police charged a 17-year-old boy from Basildon with two burglaries and seven counts of fraud by false representation, which happened in the town.

A second 17-year-old boy from Basildon was charged with two thefts of cars, two frauds and two burglaries.

Their cases were all adjourned for an appearance at Basildon Youth Court today.

Jimmy Barwick, 19, of Cathedral Drive, Laindon, was also charged last week with possession of cannabis, three counts of theft of a car, four frauds and four burglaries. His case was sent to Basildon Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing on Tuesday, August 15.

Anyone with information about the burglaries can call Essex Police on 101, or independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.