The latest burglary figures released by police showed a worrying 18 burglaries took place in just a fortnight in St Leonard’s ward in Streatham.

Police say burglaries of multi-occupancy buildings has caused the figures to rocket, and is waiting for up to £50,000 to be released to increase security at the affected buildings.

Safer Neighbourhoods Inspector John Duffy said not enough resources were available to combat burglary, as the Met’s focus is currently on violent crime.

There have been 104 burglaries in the ward, this year - well above the police target.