Two Men Arrested in Connection with Thefts Across New Forest

Two men have been arrested by officers from the New Forest Neighbourhood Enforcement Team (NET) following a series of theft-related incidents across Holbury, Hythe, and Dibden Purlieu.

The arrests took place shortly after 11am this morning at an address in Dibden, where officers executed a search warrant as part of ongoing investigations into multiple offences in the area.

A 28 year old man from Dibden was arrested on suspicion of burglary other than dwelling and handling stolen goods. His arrest is connected to a reported break-in at a garage on Curlew Close, Hythe, which is believed to have occurred between 10pm on Wednesday 13 August and 9am on Thursday 14 August.

A second man, also aged 28 and from Holbury, was arrested at the same address on suspicion of theft from a motor vehicle and shoplifting. The charges relate to two separate incidents:
• The theft of a bank card from a vehicle on Whitewater Rise, Dibden Purlieu, reported to have taken place sometime between Wednesday 3 September and Wednesday 10 September.
• A shoplifting offence reported at the Co-op store on Long Lane, Holbury on Tuesday 12 August.

During a search of the property, police also seized five bicycles, which are now being examined as part of the investigation.

Both men remain in police custody as enquiries continue.

The arrests are part of a wider effort by the New Forest NET to crack down on theft and burglary in the district. Officers are urging anyone with information related to these incidents to contact Hampshire Constabulary.