KEY POINTS:
A burglar has surprised his victims and police by helping himself to property from a Christchurch home and offering some security advice in return.
After burgling the home, the thief has left a note saying: "Put your cat out and turn your alarm on, dumb arse".
Inspector Gary Knowles said burglars occasionally left behind less tasteful surprises for his victims, but he had never seen something like this before.
"You could say the guy has a sense of humour, but it doesn't detract from the fact it is a burglary."
Mr Knowles said the note did carry an important message for people after a spate of daytime burglaries where homes were unsecured.
"Please use whatever security you have - and it may be as simple as locking the back door or remembering to activate the alarm when you go out."
"An alarm is a deterrent to most burglars - especially when it is used."
