A WOMAN says she feels “violated and terrified” after crooks broke into her car before rummaging through her valuables only to steal a packet of cigarettes.

Veronica Sarah, 26, has lived in Harsnett Road, in Colchester, for the last three years and the New Town area for more than 15 years.

During the early hours of Friday morning at least two figures were captured on CCTV breaking into her vehicle, which was parked in front of her bedroom.

After brazenly ransacking the car, the pair eventually left the scene with only a packet of cigarettes, before reportedly targeting other vehicles in the area.

Gazette:

Veronica was made aware of the break-in the following morning after her neighbour who lives opposite noticed the crime being committed on Ring doorbell footage.

She said: “I then went to my car and realised they had left it open and so everything in the car was wet – they went through everything and left such a mess.

“I was terrified as they were able to de-code my alarm system going unnoticed, they were so quiet my yappy dog did not even bark.

“I felt violated and shocked and I could not go near my car for three days due to anxiety and knowing someone else’s hands have been on things I use every day.”

According to Veronica, multiple vehicles in Canterbury Road and Barrington Road were also targeted during the criminals’ spree, which happened shortly before 3am.

READ MORE: Have-a-go hero mum from Clacton chases off cowardly crook

“These people do not have any respect or care for other people’s hard-earned belongings or any respect for themselves,” she added.

The latest incidents come after a spate of attempted car break-ins in the likes of Walton, Clacton and Colchester.

Last month, for example, a “lowlife” scumbag was caught gaining access to a van after trying the door handles on three cars beforehand.

Then, a have-a-go-hero bravely chased off a would-be thief after clocking them rummaging through her car while she relaxed at home with her family.

Essex Police has been contacted for comment.