Burglary operation results in 30 per cent fall in offences

An operation cracking down on burglary in Basildon has resulted in a 30 per cent fall in the crime.

Between Wednesday, March 21, 2012 and Sunday, March 25, 2012 officers stepped up patrols in the St Martin’s, Nethermayne and Fryerns wards late in the evening as part of Operation Coffee Pot.

A total of 20 burglaries were reported in the affected areas during the five days before the operation. Only 14 were reported during the operation meaning burglaries dropped by 30 per cent as officers flooded the areas.

Eighteen stop checks were conducted by officers to make sure that no-one was visiting the areas with the intent to commit burglary.

Numerous intelligence reports were gathered on people police suspect may be involved in criminality and a 15-year-old boy from Laindon was arrested on suspicion of possession of cannabis on Friday, March 23, 2012. He has been released on police bail pending further investigation until Thursday, April 12. Police also issued another person with a street warning.

Sgt Simon Gray said: "Throughout the whole year we keep a strong focus on tackling burglary as it really is a crime that has a lasting impact on its victims. By being visible in key areas that are suffering from burglary, we have reduced incidents and saved a number of people from becoming a victim to such a distressing crime.

"Now we are seeing warmer weather, it is tempting to leave windows open at night, but please ensure that all accessible windows and doors are fully secured at all times, especially at night, to prevent opportunist thieves seeing your property as a target.”