A CAMPAIGN to tackle burglaries in Wisbech has been hailed as such a success that it is to be rolled out to two other Cambridgeshire towns. Police say that since the crackdown in Wisbech burglary figures have fallen significantly and now a similar schem

A CAMPAIGN to tackle burglaries in Wisbech has been hailed as such a success that it is to be rolled out to two other Cambridgeshire towns.

Police say that since the crackdown in Wisbech burglary figures "have fallen significantly" and now a similar scheme is to take place in Huntingdon and St Ives.

Between June 21 and July 5 there were 16 burglaries in the town, after the launch Operation Luton this fell to 11 over the following fortnight.

The figures fell again between July 19 and August 2 to just three offences.

In the two other towns, police will be using the same tactics. Officers will be carrying out extra patrols, stop and searches in hotspot areas, gathering intelligence and evidence and paying regular visits to those suspected of being involved in burglary.

Using intelligence, officers identify people with suspected links to burglary. Those identified receive regular visits from officers and are handed a letter at the first meeting.

The letter, from Chief Inspector Russell Waterston, highlights the burglary crackdown and warns the recipient they will be arrested if they commit further offences.

The aim of the letter is to stop offending and prevent people from entering, or returning to, a life of crime.

Chief Inspector Waterston said: "We hope that by taking action immediately we can stop this rise becoming a bigger problem.

"We will invest time and resources into tackling the issue by gathering intelligence and bringing those responsible to justice.

"I would urge residents to give us any information they may have from the community about who is responsible or anyone who is known for handling stolen goods."

Residents are urged to play their part by ensuring their homes are secure and reporting any suspicious activity.