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Posted on Friday 25 November 2022

Four people have been arrested after a three-force operation targeting suspected burglars was carried out across the North East.

The operation was led by officers from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU) and involved working with colleagues in Durham, Northumbria, and Cleveland Police.

An investigation was launched after a spate of reports of high value burglaries were recorded across the region during October and November.

Those responsible were allegedly breaking into homes and stealing family jewellery, cash and other valuables.

Weeks of building intelligence and gathering evidence took place before a specialised operation was carried out targeting suspects - with the latest taking place on Wednesday.

The operation resulted in a total of four males, 54, 34, 14 and 27, being arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit burglary and theft, and a quantity of suspected stolen goods and evidence was recovered.

They have since all been released on conditional bail while enquiries continue.

NEROCU Detective Inspector Shaun Fordy, who led the investigation into the conspiracy, said: “This has been a complex but strong operation carried out in partnership with our three regional police forces.

“It demonstrates the lengths and resources at our disposal to tackle and disrupt organised crime and pursue anyone believed to be involved.

“We continue to encourage people not to keep valuables within their homes and to be vigilant at all times. It is important that residents take the necessary preventative steps to ensure that their property is secure and that access to the rear garden areas are locked or restricted wherever possible. These small steps can deter criminals in the first instance.”

DI Fordy added: “Across the region we are continuing the work to tackle serious and organised crime in all its forms under the banner of Operation Sentinel.

“We would urge anyone who has information or concerns to come forward. Help us to prevent these criminals from continuing their harmful, illegal activities.”

You can report your concerns by calling 101 or through 101 Live Chat: www.durham.police.uk/Report-It/101-Live-Chat/101-Live-Chat.aspx

Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

 

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