A dozy burglar has been seized by police as he was caught red-handed soaking in the tub at his victim’s apartment in Germany.

The hapless 17-year-old could have got clean away after breaking into the empty flat in Muenster, North Rhine-Westphalia, on 28th August.

Instead, say police, he chose to relax in the bath and was caught by the owner when he came home.

In a statement obtained by Newsflash, Muenster Police spokeswoman Antonia Linnenbrink said: “The 58-year-old man who owns the flat had gone out around 4pm.

“However, he returned half an hour later when a worried neighbour called him regarding suspicious noises coming from the apartment.”

The teenage intruder was naked and soaking in the bath when the homeowner returned, reported local media.

Spokeswoman Linnebrink said: “The 17-year-old wore no clothes. He was lying in the bathtub.

“He obeyed the tenant’s request to get dressed.”

The homeowner then called the police who arrested the burglar, who was found to have a record of thefts and break-ins.

Police say the teen had planned to steal a mobile phone, clothing and tobacco when he was tempted by the idea of a hot soaking.

The investigation continues.