UP-TO-DATE BURGLARS.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVIII, 30 January 1925, Page 8

UP-TO-DATE BURGLARS.

No greater contrast could be found in any calling than that between the methods of the new and the old-time ourglar (writes Hugh Bradv, in the Daily Chronicle). Occasionally attention is drawn to the almost forgotten ‘'Bill Sikes” type by a clumsy and bad-tempered raid on a house, which is left after an almost profitless visit bearing the marks of the old-timer —broken furniture, torn curtains and carpets, with everything turned tdpsy-tnrvy. The criminal of today marches with the times. Science las replaced force. Robbery is no longer u> matter of success achieved by violence in the overcoming of obstacles. Burglars of the past risked imminent capture every time they attempted „o add to their ill-gotten gains. Their very appearance gave them away. Revolvers were carried by the more desperate types; a bludgeon was the weapon of the less ferocious. Heavy instruments and great labour were used !n forcing safes. AH that is changed now. The ex ie: t cracksman of to-day studies ever, move from the scouting preliminaries o arranging a ‘‘get away” if disturbed rife does not enter a house as a ra. 3liters a trap. Innocent dupes are used to pave th< way to. success. The first step in ; raid is to learn the habits of the in mates of a house and where the vain ables are stored. Plausible, well-dressed members o the gang gain the desired knowledge t enable their confederates to enter am * leave a house with the minimum los> of time. Too late it is learned that a woman servant had spoken too freely to a man who gained confidence In piesents, motor drives, and his winning ma miers. The actual thieves are men well trained in the. tricks of the trade and possessed of native skill and daring. Their quick wits and iron nerve, catlike movements, dexterity, and speed arc- all fully developed. They know that slovenly methods lead to penal servitude instead of riches. Oxy-acetone apparatus has replaced brute force in the opening of safes. Waiting confederates are always on the look-out for, interruption. And when the spoil is secured the expert motor-driver is over ready for the signal his companions to safety. The methods of the up-to-date burH'w are' as different from those of the old-fashioned burglar as in liis appearance.