Robbers planning burglary

[Jo14]

My new flat mate was disconcerted to hear two men talking very late at night outside our flat about having seen her move in. The general conversation was one telling the other about how small she was, how much stuff she had and how easy it would be to overpower her and help themselves to whatever was inside. The bell went twice earlier in the evening with nobody outside. She felt they knew she was alone and that they have been watching the house, one possibly being a neighbour. We have a basement flat ,thankfully we have a security gate ( following a previous break in) and window locks but both she and I now feel afraid returning to the flat. We live near Loughborough Junction. What's the correct thing to do in these circumstances? Is there a neighbourhood watch in the area? No crime has been committed (yet) but it is threatening and unnerving. Any advice?

[Jules-and-Boo]

That's awful.

Ask the police for advice, also they would know if there's a pattern in the area.

Also - anyone that can stay over and make it look like she's not alone?

You can get cameras set up (working or not - would be a deterrent.

Meet her neighbours. Get to know who is around.

[Jo14]

Thanks, yes I am usually there about half the week but we both work and are out during the day. I have always thought alarms and cameras suggest there is more inside (there is a lot of stuff but not much worth anything! It's peace of mind and feeling secure that is genuinely precious) but maybe I need to reconsider.

[Nigello]

Why not fit two dead locks and window locks too? Do a search on here for locksmiths and see whether one could come out today. Ring 101 and report it.

[edanna]

I would definitely call the police - really scary. And hide anything irreplaceable eg jewellery and stuff of sentimental value somewhere where anyone breaking in wouldn't expect it to be.

[steveo]

Lights, lots of light

[Saffron]

How terrible! I agree with what others say re informing police. Have you thought of knocking on neighbours' doors to find out if anyone has seen/heard anything suspicious as well?

[JimiSayo]

Get the police involved. They may have a good idea of whom the local villains are. And yes, put valuables into storage for now.