Two men have pleaded guilty to burglary after the victim captured them breaking into her home via a camera link on her phone.

David Mbrapshtija, 20, of no fixed address and Zef Mehilli, 22, of Chipstead Gardens, London were arrested in possession of stolen items near Park Avenue, Bushey on December 13.

The victim, who was not at home at the time, alerted police when she saw people in her house via an internal camera linked to her mobile phone.

Both men were subsequently charged with burglary and Mehilli has also been charged with burglary in connection with a break-in at a home in Tudor Drive, Watford on September 29 and two counts of assaulting a police officer during his arrest.

Mehilli was also wanted in connection with a burglary that occurred in Chigwell on October 31.

Both men appeared at Hatfield Remand Court on Saturday where they pleaded guilty and were remanded in custody. They will appear at St Albans Crown Court on January 11 for sentencing.

Hertsmere Chief Inspector Steve O’Keeffe said: “The quick thinking of the victim during the Bushey burglary meant officers could respond swiftly and catch the offenders red handed.

“During the darker winter months, we often see an increase in burglaries. With this in mind we urge residents to review their home security by using timer lights to give your home the lived in look, ensuring windows and doors are locked, and investing in deterrents such as a web cam door bell and home alarms.

“Please also look out for your neighbours and if you see any suspicious activity report it to police straight away by calling 101 or online at www.herts.police.uk/report. If you believe a crime is in progress always dial 999.”