A BURGLAR who broke into several businesses has been jailed.

Muhhammed Ahmed smashed his way into shops, cafes and businesses in Hove across this summer.

He admitted eight charges of burglary, breaching a conditional discharge and possession of cocaine.

The 35-year-old took cash, alcohol, electronic devices and other items from the businesses.

At Brighton Magistrates’ Court he was jailed for one year.

The court was told that Ahmed broke into Flowers Unlimited in Portland Road, Billies cafe in Goldstone Villas, and Harrisons of Hove in Montefiore Road in June.

Then in July he broke into Artista Studio in Waterloo Street and Le Nantais Bistro in Church Road.

In August Ahmed broke into Viksi Salon in Victoria Terrace and the Art Shop and Pottery in Western Road.

Finally he broke into Cafe Ninety in Blatchington Road on September 5.

Ahmed, of Ingram Crescent West, was in breach of a community order imposed last year for battery, possession of cocaine, and failing to surrender to court last year.

He was sentenced to one year in prison.

The break ins sparked public concern from Hove and Portslade Labour MP Peter Kyle and from Green Party councillors Phelim Mac Cafferty and Hannah Clare.

Brunswick and Adelaide representatives Mr Mac Cafferty and Ms Clare said they had been “horrified” by the spate of break ins.

In July they wrote: “Our fear is that these break-ins are increasing in regularity and in severity.

“The more we have spoken to those affected by these crimes, the more we have become aware that the crimes appear to be part of an established pattern.”

Following the case Detective Inspector Ian Still said: “Ahmed carried out a series of burglaries at businesses in Hove over the summer months which impacted on the community in this part of the city.

“We worked hard to investigate these offences along with help from the business community and members of the public and are pleased he is now behind bars.”