Crackdown on home and car crime

Back

A British police force has launched a major operation to target burglars and car criminals in response to a recent increase in break-ins and vehicle crime.

The three-month crackdown, codenamed Operation Crunch, will see Warwickshire Police officers work around the clock to target prolific offenders, using both high-profile and covert activity.

The operation is being led by Chief Supt Mak Chishty, who said: "The number of burglaries of people's homes and the number of cars broken into or stolen has shown an increase recently and we are not prepared to accept this.

"We are currently analysing the reasons why the number of crimes has risen recently. Some have suggested that the credit crunch, a problem faced by all families, is the reason.

"We say that there is no excuse and the only crunch around here will be on burglars and car criminals."

Mr Chishty said that convicted offenders recently released from prison would be targeted if there was evidence that the local crime rate and subsequent home insurance claims had gone up following their release.

"We are determined to put the crunch on the criminals. We intend to make it difficult for them to commit crime and, if they do, they need to know that we will be there to arrest them," he added.

Copyright © PA Business 2008

Get a car insurance or home insurance quote now.