An Albanian national has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for a series of burglaries across the United Kingdom. Gedis Uka, 30, is believed to have traveled to the UK each winter between October and January to steal from properties in eight southern English counties.
Kent Police led a two-year investigation into the crimes, culminating in Uka's arrest in a taxi. He was charged with 33 offenses linked to the burglaries, pleading guilty to 19, which were accepted by the court. On Tuesday, Maidstone Crown Court handed down the 10-year sentence.
Uka's method involved smashing windows and doors to gain entry to homes. Forensic evidence, including blood found at two properties in Edenbridge, Kent in December 2023, helped link the crimes. Over the subsequent two years until November 2025, similar incidents were reported in the Edenbridge and Sevenoaks areas, with victims reporting forced entry and stolen jewelry.
The burglaries also extended to other areas, with Uka targeting homes in Berkshire, Bristol, Buckinghamshire, Essex, London, Suffolk, and Surrey. CCTV footage captured Uka wearing a mask during some of the break-ins, and in one instance, a victim was home during a burglary, which police described as a terrifying ordeal.
Detective Constable Celia King highlighted the complexity of the investigation due to the time gaps between offenses and the varying locations. She noted the challenges in tracking Uka, as he was only believed to be active in England during the winter months. "Uka had no remorse for his victims, smashing his way into the properties and leaving a mess before stealing sentimental items," King stated. Police also thanked victims and other law enforcement agencies for their assistance in bringing Uka to justice.