Foreign crime gangs use delivery riders to case high-end homes

TAKEAWAY riders have been used by organised burglary gangs to scout the layout and security of luxury properties when delivering food, a former police expert has warned.

- BY ISAAC CROWSON

Riders from Deliveroo, Uber Eats and other courier firms have taken photos and videos when delivering to mansions in leafy suburbs, according to a security chief.

In doing so they have reduced the risk of burglars being spotted before they strike, while recording information such as door and window entry points, getaway routes, security systems and what vehicles are available on driveways.

The crime pattern has been highlighted by former Met Police Detective Chief Inspector Dave McKelvey, who now runs Britain's biggest private security firm, TM Eye.

He said he is aware of Romanian and Albanian gangs based in Britain working with South American criminals on the enterprise.

He said: “We're so used to seeing drivers going around on mopeds and bikes that they're everywhere.