A POLICE squad is gearing up for a major clampdown on car crime in south Lancaster.

An eight-strong specialist 'targeting team' is going in to Hala and Scotforth to instal hidden cameras and carry out covert operations at hot spots where auto crime has become rife.

Police say the problem has escalated recently - with local residents reporting 23 vehicle-related offences in June alone.

Three vehicles whose values total £10,000 were stolen along with £2,000 worth of property from inside, such as mobile phones and clothing.

Police say thieves are most intent on stealing audio equipment followed by car parts, including parcel shelves, wheel trims and gear knobs.

Sgt Tony Murphy says: "It is known there is a hard core of about six young men in their teens who live in the south Lancaster area who are responsible for the majority of these crimes."

He says Abbeystead Drive, Hala Road, Scotforth Road and Ingleton Drive are the worst 'hot spots', with most of the offences taking place at first light on Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Police action will include the use of search warrants at places suspected of harbouring stolen goods and covert operations including cameras set up in the worst hit areas.

Stop and search powers will also be used where necessary.

Sgt Murphy says thieves might be able to sell a stolen car stereo for about £25 but the impact of the offence hits hard as the owner faces the ordeal of clearing broken glass out of the car, reporting the incident to police and chasing insurance claims.

The targeting team's operation is hoped to significantly reduce the problem.

PC Neil McInnes says work by the team had recently led to the arrest of a 13-year-old for two vehicle thefts and other offences. He has appeared before magis-trates and been remanded into local authority care.

"We have already made inroads," says the officer, who calls on parents to ensure they knew their children's where-abouts and activities.

"Please take responsibility. If you suspect your child is involved with this gang and ask yourself where he is in the early hours," he says.

* Anyone with information should contact Sgt Murphy or PC McInnes on 01524-596642 or call Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.