Muscat – As families head out for the summer holidays, Royal Oman Police (ROP) is urging residents to take extra precautions to protect their homes, warning that unattended properties can become easy targets for thieves.

Brig Jamal bin Habib Al Quraishi, Director General of Inquiries and Criminal Investigation, said homeowners should ensure all doors and windows are securely locked, disconnect unnecessary electrical appliances and ask trusted relatives or neighbours to check on their properties while they are away.

He also advised residents to remove flyers and promotional material left at doorsteps, as accumulated leaflets can signal that a house is unoccupied.

Technology, he said, can play a vital role in deterring burglars. Timed lighting and smart security systems connected to mobile phones allow homeowners to monitor their properties remotely through live audio and video while creating the impression that someone is at home.

Brig Al Quraishi cautioned against common security lapses, including hiding spare keys under doormats or in other obvious locations, leaving valuables in plain sight and failing to instal or maintain security systems.

“Surveillance cameras and alarm systems not only deter criminals but also provide valuable evidence during investigations,” he said, adding that poorly positioned or low-quality cameras and neglected equipment significantly reduce their effectiveness.

The ROP also urged residents to exercise caution on social media. Posting travel plans or holiday photographs in real time can inadvertently advertise that a home has been left vacant. Brig Al Quraishi advised delaying such posts until after returning home.

He noted that a number of theft cases investigated by the ROP involved domestic workers, particularly those employed on a daily basis, who had become familiar with household routines and the locations of cash and valuables. Some investigations also uncovered coordination with individuals outside the home to remove and dispose of stolen property.

He advised families to avoid storing jewellery, cash and other valuables in easily accessible places and to remain alert to suspicious behaviour.

Beyond preventive measures, Brig Al Quraishi said the ROP continues to work closely with Interpol and Arab liaison offices to track down suspects who flee abroad after committing theft in Oman. These efforts have resulted in the arrest and extradition of several offenders and the recovery of stolen property.

He added that the ROP has intensified public awareness campaigns through educational videos, lectures and publications to promote burglary prevention.

Under the Omani Penal Code, issued via Royal Decree No 7/2018, theft offences carry severe penalties, particularly when crimes involve forced entry, weapons, threats, impersonation of public officials or are committed at night.