Burglary Crackdown Proves to be Success

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Police operation halves burglaries since the start of summer

A Wandsworth police operation has resulted in a 50% reduction in burglaries since the start of summer.

In recognition of the impact burglary has on people’s lives and livelihoods, we launched a pro-active operation in June to arrest these criminals, and 71 arrests have been made so far.

The crackdown saw the launch of the borough’s dedicated burglary squad, which was formed to undertake immediate investigations at crime scenes.

They also work with Safer Neighbourhoods teams, forensic squads, and rapid entry teams to investigate burglaries, execute warrants and monitor the activities of known burglars.

Detective Superintendent Guy Fergsuon, of Wandsworth police, said:

“A fast-time dedicated response greatly increases the chances of recovering physical evidence and gaining accurate eyewitness accounts, which are the vital ingredients in police investigations.

“This has played a pivotal role in reducing burglary across the borough and the intelligence we develop means we can hit hotspots immediately. At least nine people have been convicted of burglary offences this summer and we aim to bring more offenders to justice.”

The most noticeable reduction is in Latchmere and West Putney, which, within a month, have seen a drop from 4 to 5 burglaries per fortnight to none.

Inspector Matt Phelps, who leads the borough’s pro-active squad which supports the work of the burglary squad, said, “Since the start of the operation we have carried out a number of surveillance operations to target burglars and those involved in handling goods from burglaries. Fourteen of the people we arrested have now been charged and we recently raided two venues and seized an array of suspected stolen goods.”

As the weather warms up please don’t provide burglars with opportunities, like leaving your windows open when you pop to the shops. We have crime prevention officers who can advise you on how to make your homes more secure.

August 16, 2007