It may be a little late in the season, but as there is still nearly one month to go, we thought it right to mention something on local crime.

Thieves are operating in Kalkan.  We know of several people who have had things stolen over recent months - the latest incident being this afternoon (Tuesday).

Kalkan is a wonderful place to be, but like any other town you would care to mention, it has a tiny minority who believe they are entitled to take your stuff.

There appear to be three common ways in which they are operating.

The opportunist sneak thief
These criminals are happy to take a risk, and slip in through an open door or window, during the day, even if you are on the premises.  They are in and out before you know it.

The incident today is typical.  A couple lying on their sunbeds by the pool at the front of the property, and the thief sneaking round the back of the villa and in through an open door, just out of sight.  Wallet, purse and jewellery, all gone in a minute or so.  No damage.  In fact, nothing at all to suggest the thief was there, apart from a ladies handbag left open on a table.

What is the solution?  Simple - when you are out in your garden, or by the pool, lock all doors and windows that you can not directly see.  It may feel like an inconvenience, but from many months of doing this at KTLN HQ, we can tell you that it just becomes second nature.  It only takes a few seconds to lock a door or window, and you can relax, knowing that nobody can slip in, unnoticed.

The early morning intruder
Typically, these thieves strike very early in the morning, often between 3am and 5am.  All break ins are awful, however, it's a particularly unpleasant experience, to think that a stranger is in your home whilst you are asleep.  They will look for people who sleep with windows open - it's an open invitation.

What is the solution?   It's best not to sleep with windows open.  But what about the heat, you may ask?  You need to stay cool.  Our advice would be to keep them closed, and use the night time 'economy' aircon, if you have it, or alternatively, leave open only those windows that are fitted with bars.  Another option is to fix some kind of limiter on your windows or patio doors, which physically restrict how far they can be opened, such that a person could not gain entry.

The early evening lurkers
Some criminals will watch for people leaving their properties - perhaps popping into town for an evening meal, before deciding to break in, whilst the property is empty.

We have also heard from towns not too far away from Kalkan, of thieves catapulting small stones against windows, from the roadside, to see whether the noise gets the curtains twitching.  If there is no response, the property is empty, and in they go.

What is the solution?   Observation is key.  Look out for people hanging about for no good reason - whether it's your property or that of a neighbour.  If you have any doubts or concerns, you should alert the Jandarma.  They have expressly told KTLN that they want to know.  They will not say you are wasting their time.  Their direct number is 0242 844 3005.

When you are going out and leaving an empty property, consider what you should take with you, and what needs to be hidden away.

KTLN members can find more security advice in the KTLN article, Home Security, in our Knowledge Bank.

A little perspective
Finally, some perspective.  It is important to emphasise that the vast majority of people who live in Kalkan, or who visit the town on holiday, do not end up at the Jandarma station reporting a crime.  However, if you are the unlucky ones, the statistics are likely to be cold comfort.

Please be assured, it is perfectly possible to come to Kalkan, relax, have a great time, and go home with happy memories and all your belongings.  That's the norm.  But you do need to take basic, common sense precautions, just as you would at home, or anywhere else.

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