Night watch: hunt for ‘ex-soldier’ shotgun raider

Police suspect that a violent armed burglar linked to a string of break-ins at luxury homes across southeast England may be a trained soldier.

The man studies the layout of estates, the location of safes and the routine of households - sometimes by hiding in the garden - using a methodical approach that suggests military training, Surrey Police say.

Officers fear the intruder, who carries a sawn-off shotgun, could seriously injure or even kill his next victim, reports Sky News. He strikes about every six months and has stolen at least £1m worth of heirlooms, watches and jewellery, in a total of seven burglaries, the BBC says.

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Victims have been left traumatised, with some bound, beaten and threatened with the gun during the heists. One woman suffered a broken jaw and had a tooth knocked out, The Guardian says.

“He hit me three times on my face ... I couldn't believe the blows kept coming,” said 61-year-old Susan Morris, who was dragged across the floor by her hair as the man demanded more jewellery.

Four police forces are hunting for the man following raids in Berkshire, Kent, Surrey and Sussex between 2014 and 2017.

Surrey Police detective inspector Dee Fielding says investigators “do not believe this to be the work of an opportunist burglar, but someone who has specialist knowledge and skills – possibly ex-forces or from a similar background”.

The man is described as white, stocky and about 1.8 metres (6ft) tall, with a southern accent.