FOURTEEN people were arrested during a three-day clampdown on car crime in Whitefield.

They were detained during a surveillance operation in the Livsey Street area.

The crackdown, which was codenamed "Operation Redbridge", was mounted to tackle the problems of theft of cars and theft from vehicles.

Nine officers from Whitefield and Prestwich Townships, together with four special constables, were involved in the secret night-time operation.

And police have warned that similar initiatives will take place again within the division to address auto crime in Whitefield and elsewhere.

Detective Sergeant Dave Maguire of Bury police crime management unit said: "As a result of their efforts, the officers made 14 arrests relating to the theft of vehicles, theft from vehicles and an offensive weapon.

"This was part of our ongoing process to address auto crime. There will be future operations of this type in and around Whitefield."

Officers are currently assessing car crime in various "hot spots" within the division.

"Operation Redbridge" was carried out last Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings.

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