A blitz on burglars has resulted in a year-on-year reduction in the number of burglaries in the city.
AdvertisementPolice launched a crackdown after the offences rose slightly in January, but today revealed new figures show the Central Division – which covers Preston – saw a 16.6% drop in burglaries.
Between April 2011 and March this year there were 386 burglaries, 76 fewer than the same period in 2010 to 2011.
The crackdown, named Operation Julius, was launched in January and police have arrested 350 people and seized almost £30,000 of stolen property across the county.
Assistant Chief Constable Andy Cooke said: “I am pleased with the results of the operation which show we have reduced the number of people affected by this intrusive crime.
“Despite the success this is just the start and we will continue to focus our efforts on those who persistently commit burglaries.
“Residents have an important part to play in locking out thieves and I urge people to make sure they keep their homes and vehicles locked and secure.
“Burglary levels in Lancashire are already at unprecedented lows but as part of our determination to keep it that way the operation is aimed at further reducing the number of crimes and at targeting known offenders.”