A handbag was stolen from one house, a laptop and camera from another and a handbag from a different house.

Police said there were also break and enters in Oatlands, Carlingford, Rouse Hill, Kellyville, Castle Hill and Baulkham Hills during the past week.

Police are keen to reduce the risk of break-ins at local schools during the next few weeks and have urged residents to report seeing anyone in school grounds at any time during the holiday period.

Cash, phone taken

TWO 16-year-olds from Castle Hill and Glenorie and a 17-year-old Arcadia resident were robbed on Friday after leaving the Castle Towers cinemas.

The three victims were approached on the corner of Old Northern Road and McMullen street at 11.20pm by a group of five males, described as teenagers.

The victims were threatened and their wallets, a mobile phone and cash were taken.

A 17-year-old was punched in the mouth.

One of the offenders was described as wearing a white jumper with black patterns and 160cm tall, stocky with broad shoulders, a round face, bleached-blonde hair with brown re-growth.

Kids harassed

QUAKERS Hill police have urged parents to discuss personal safety with their children.

The recommendation followed incidents involving a sex offender who has targeted school-aged girls at or walking near bus stops.

The offender has often been armed with a knife and is described as male, 18-22 years, Asian, 170-175cm tall, thin build, black hair and dark complexion.

Police have recommended that children should avoid walking alone to or from school and school bus stops and should travel in groups if possible.

Police said that parents should remind their children to contact 000 immediately if they are approached by a stranger.

Parents should also notify school authorities.

people with information are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800333000, with reference to Strike Force Luxford.