Police said intruders broke into properties in both the Windmill Hill and Daruka areas, along with South and West Tamworth between Friday night and Monday morning, and several cars were stolen.

Officers were still searching for a stolen Toyota Hilux on Monday morning.

"Operation Southbreak has already ramped up in an effort to track those responsible," Oxley Detective Acting Inspector Jason Darcy told the Leader.

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"We do believe these offences are connected, and obviously there are groups of offenders getting around together and using cars to drive to locations to case out premises.

"Police are appealing to anyone that sees any young persons or groups walking around the streets late at night and into the morning, please call police."

Detective Darcy has urged locals to ensure their cars are locked; keys are not left inside vehicles; homes and garages are locked; and keys are secured in bedrooms, or tucked away from kitchen benches or near doorways - away from opportunistic thieves.

"Park cars under security sensor lights, or street lights, or where home CCTV can be seen - and keep an eye on your neighbours and their properties," he said.

"If the dog is barking, take a look to make sure it's not someone that shouldn't be there.

"But in any event, secure your homes and businesses and always call police if something is untoward or not right, because we can make a patrol."

Anyone with information on the break-ins or suspicious activity is urged to contact Tamworth police on 6768 2999.

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