Haleema Saheed

Theft of Asian gold in West Yorkshire has surged more than 2,000% in four years, with losses exceeding £700,000 last year and over £500,000 already reported in 2026. Police attribute the rise to high gold prices and economic pressures and have launched a force‑wide response, working with community and faith groups to promote crime‑prevention measures. South Asian women described the cultural and sentimental value of gold and the emotional impact of losing heirloom pieces. Community leaders highlighted a growing fear of wearing gold and a stigma that discourages victims from speaking out. Calls were made for tighter regulations requiring jewellers to conduct consistent checks when purchasing gold.