Warwickshire Police warn Bedworth residents over 'Da Pinchi codes'

Police said the markings have been appearing overnight in Bedworth

Police in Warwickshire are warning residents about a series of painted symbols they say could be helping burglars to target homes.

Police said about 40 markings had appeared overnight in Bedworth. "The paint is luminous and glows in the dark," the force said.

Officers said the symbols could be connected to the so-called "Da Pinchi code" which supposedly helps burglars identify possible targets.

People said the issue was concerning.

'Silly thing'

Officers said Da Pinchi codes were left outside properties to "indicate different things about occupants".

The code may mean, for example, the occupants are on holiday, they are vulnerable or they are a "good target".

The code supposedly helps burglars identify possible targets

They said the Bedworth markings were found on Monday and Tuesday and were left on the road, rather than the path, where utility services would mark.

"If you see somebody placing these markings please contact police immediately, taking any make, model, colour and registration down if possible - without putting yourself in any danger," they said.

Sgt David Williams said: "We believe there are about 40 markings in about four different ward areas of Bedworth.

"We are keeping an open mind but we have been looking at the Da Pinchi code. Historically, people involved in criminality use certain symbols and shapes.

"It could be a prank, in which case it's a really silly thing to do, or it could be criminals giving signals."

Resident Michelle Randall said some of the lines were outside her house.

"We noticed it yesterday. They are just small, florescent green lines," she said.

"They are a bit concerning. The gentleman down the road said he had seen a car lurking around and when he came home, it moved from outside his property. As residents we are all speaking to each other."