DETECTIVES are investigating after burglars ransacked a home on Canvey.

The victim returned home to Hardys Way, Canvey to find raiders had forced their way in.

The victim then took to social media to convey her horror at what she found.

She revealed the intruders escaped with jewellery, watches, sunglasses and an iPhone.

Castle Point Councillor Peter Greig said: “Hearing about incidents like this isn’t nice at all and is extremely upsetting for the people involved.

“Police haven’t always got the manpower and resources to attend incidents like this.

“It’s a difficult situation to resolve.

“I would advise islanders to take all the necessary precautions to prevent this, like being aware of your surroundings all the time, if there are any strangers loitering about be extra aware.

“Keep things locked up and away at all times and keep side gates and windows shut.

“Having a burglar alarm could be beneficial, but then even then they go off at inconvenient times.

“Unfortunately, other than these precautions there’s not a lot you can do.

“Even doing so doesn’t mean people won’t get in.

“They can be clever, if they hang about and watch what time you leave and come home, they could break in without even probably being noticed.

“Having a neighbourhood watch is the best advice I could give.

“Neighbours can keep an eye out on anyone acting suspicious around your vicinity and can inform the police if they see anything happening.”

Nobody has been arrested but police are keen to speak to any witnesses who may have seen people acting suspiciously in the area.

The raid took place in broad daylight.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We are currently investigating following a burglary at an address in Hardy’s Way, Canvey, which was reported at 11.35am on Monday, March 4.

“Someone has forced their way into the address and carried out a messy search.

“If you have any information about the incident please call us on 101 quoting the crime reference number 42/34579/19.”