Surrey Police said they are investigating a series of residential break-ins targeting “large-scale homes” in the South Surrey, Panorama Ridge and Crescent Beach areas.

Although police did not say how many incidents occurred, they said investigators believe the thefts are linked to similar incidents in other jurisdictions in the Lower Mainland.

The suspects appear to work in teams of three, Surrey RCMP said in a news release Friday, adding that they typically strike between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. when homes are unoccupied and usually break in by breaking the window a patio door.

Once inside, the thieves primarily steal “high-value items” like jewelry and purses, as well as cash, police said.

“Investigators believe the thieves are scouting the properties before striking,” said Sgt. Tammy Lobb, in the press release.

“Therefore, we encourage residents to keep their homes secure, look out for each other as neighbors, and call the police to report any suspicious activity or suspicious individuals.”

Police have not released any photos of the suspects, but have provided descriptions of them and their attire.

One suspect is 6’3″ and “strongly built,” according to police. Another is 6′ and “muscular,” while the third is 5’8″ and “thin.”

Police did not give details about their skin tone, hair or eye color, but said all three were seen wearing hoodies, dark-colored sweatpants and balaclavas. .

“All three suspects tighten the drawstrings of their hoodies around their hoods to conceal their facial features,” police said in the release.

The force said it held a “monitoring meeting” this week and plans to hold another “soon.” Residents of the affected neighborhoods could also see an increased police presence in the coming days.

Anyone with information regarding the break-ins should call Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502, police said.