CAR crimes and burglaries are the target of a new high-profile police blitz labelled Operation Daytona.

The scheme, which is aimed at reducing crime in the Central Division, combines intelligence-led and targeted policing methods.

The initiative is focusing on thefts of, and from, cars, criminal damage to vehicles and house burglaries.

Acting Detective Inspector Joe Hardiker said: "We would encourage people to take steps to reduce the opportunities for criminals.

"They should always lock their cars whenever they are parked and unattended.

"Never leave anything on full view because thieves can cause a lot of damage when they break in. If people really have no option but to leave bags in the car, they should lock them out of sight in the boot."

Teams of police experts are collecting information to identify hotspots and establish what steps town centre and rural car parks should take to make them safer.

Mr Hardiker added: "We are also focusing on house burglaries as we know this is a peak time for opportunist and sneak thieves.

"Too many householders make it easy for them by leaving doors and windows open during the nice weather.

"We would urge people to make sure they take every precaution, especially when they go out, but even when they are in the garden."

For details call Acting Det Insp Hardiker 01772 209006.

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