A prolific burglar caught after DNA was found on a door handle has been jailed.

Alvaro Huaiquifil Painevalu ransacked a house in Highland Road, Badgers Mount near Sevenoaks, stealing jewellery, cash, and electronics.

The victim discovered a chaotic scene with clothes strewn across the floor and cupboards thrown open when they returned to the house on July 18, 2017.

The rear patio doors of the property were also found to have been forced open.

Kent Police crime scene investigators took swabs from the exterior handles of the patio doors, later finding a DNA match with the 26-year-old.

Mr Painevalu, who originates from Chile and had no fixed address in the UK, pleaded guilty to burglary at Maidstone Crown Court and was sentenced to three years in prison on Thursday, January 25.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Bill Lait said: "Huaiquifil Painevalu is a prolific burglar who has also recently been sentenced for crimes he carried out in parts of Essex.

"We believe he has links to an organised criminal network responsible for countless burglaries across the South East.

DC Lait explained how burglary was an invasive crime with a lasting impact on victims.

"Those targeted sometimes lose items of great sentimental value, which cannot be replaced and it is for these reasons we will continue to relentlessly pursue offenders and bring them before the courts," he said.