By Tony O’Reilly-
Officers investigating the offences have released a number of images from CCTV footage showing a man they believe may be linked to multiple break-ins reported since the beginning of July.
The incidents have affected businesses in areas including Mapperley, Sherwood and Carrington, with investigators highlighting similarities in the way each premises was targeted.
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In several cases, the offender is believed to have struck during the early hours of the morning, using similar methods to gain entry before searching inside for valuables. Police said windows were often smashed to access the businesses, with cash appearing to be the main target. Other items, including bottles of alcohol and electrical equipment, were also taken during some of the incidents.
The suspect captured on CCTV is described as wearing a hat and a face covering, making identification more difficult. However, officers say they believe the images released from different crime scenes show the same individual and are now asking members of the public to come forward with any information that could help identify him.
Suspects caught on CCTV breaking into shops Image: Nottingham Police
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Inspector Steve King of Nottinghamshire Police said the businesses affected had been left extremely distressed by the offences and that officers were committed to finding those responsible.
“The victims of these break-ins are extremely upset by what happened, so we’re determined to find whoever was responsible,” he said. “We believe the images released show the same man, who we suspect to be behind this burglary series.”
He urged anyone who recognised the individual or had information about the incidents to contact police as soon as possible.
The investigation comes against the backdrop of continuing concerns about burglary and business crime across Nottingham and the wider UK.
According to Home Office crime statistics, burglary remains a significant category of recorded offending, with hundreds of thousands of burglary offences reported across England and Wales each year.
While residential burglary generally receives greater public attention, commercial premises such as shops, restaurants and small businesses are also regularly targeted by offenders seeking cash, stock and equipment.
Recent crime data has shown that Nottingham has experienced persistent challenges with property-related offences. Nottinghamshire Police recorded thousands of burglary offences over recent years, reflecting the wider national picture where businesses and households continue to face the financial and emotional impact of break-ins.
Across England and Wales, police recorded more than 250,000 burglary offences in the year ending March 2025, although burglary levels remain below the peaks recorded before major long-term declines in property crime.
The impact of burglary on businesses often extends beyond the value of stolen goods. Owners can face repair costs, lost trading hours, increased security expenses and concerns among employees and customers. For smaller hospitality businesses, where cash handling and late opening hours are common, repeated break-ins can create significant disruption.
Inspector King said patrols had been increased in the affected areas following the incidents, with both uniformed and plain-clothed officers deployed. Police teams have also visited local businesses to provide advice on improving security and reducing opportunities for criminals.
He said many of the incidents shared common features, particularly the timing of the offences and the focus on cash.
“Burglars often rely on opportunities presenting themselves,” Inspector King said, adding that businesses could take practical steps to make themselves less attractive targets.
Police advice includes ensuring all doors and windows are locked securely, regularly checking that CCTV systems and alarms are functioning properly, and avoiding leaving cash on business premises overnight wherever possible.
Security experts often recommend that businesses combine physical protection measures with good operational routines. These can include improving external lighting, ensuring valuable equipment is not visible from outside, maintaining clear records of stock and using secure cash-handling procedures.
The appeal follows a series of recent incidents across Nottinghamshire that have increased public concern about crime in some communities. Police have continued to encourage residents and business owners to report suspicious behaviour, stressing that early information can help officers identify offenders and prevent further offences.
Anyone who recognises the person shown in the CCTV images or has information connected to the burglaries is asked to contact Nottinghamshire Police on 101. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Police have also reminded members of the public that suspicious activity should continue to be reported, particularly where behaviour suggests a potential crime may be taking place.
The investigation into the Nottingham and Gedling business burglaries remains ongoing, with officers working to establish the full number of offences linked to the suspected offender and gather further evidence.
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