Police are investigating a string of burglaries that occurred throughout Columbia Borough in the last week.
The perpetrators are entering homes through unlocked doors and windows, during the early evening hours when residents are home.
The burglars should be considered armed and dangerous because firearms are among the items they have stolen. Residents should not try to confront them but should retreat to safety and call police.
Some victims have spotted the burglars, but police are not releasing their descriptions, Sgt. Adam Miller said.
Since November 23, purses, cash, guns, digital cameras, GPS units, loose change and other small items have been stolen from homes in the 600 and 900 blocks of Plane Street, South 9th Street, the 100 block of Chestnut Street, the first block of North 4th Street, and the 100 block of South 6th Street.
Losses could end up in the thousands of dollars, Miller said.
Residents should keep doors and windows locked, even when they are home and should not leave valuables in plain view through windows and doors.
Police are adding extra patrols and using camera systems in the borough to assist in their investigation.
Police ask anyone with information to call Columbia police Det. Matthew Leddy or Sgt. Miller at 684-7735.
Tipsters also may call Lancaster City/County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-322-1913 or anonymously text LANCS plus your message to 847411 (TIP411).