Operation Wellington is underway in Merton
Police cracking down on increasing burglary offences in Merton have arrested 46 people in the first week of a special operation.
Operation Wellington, which began on March 21, is a borough-wide initiative launched in response to a rise in the number of break-ins at homes and businesses.
In the last seven days, plain clothes detectives and uniformed Safer Neighbourhood officers, as well as other units, have arrested 46 people, aged from 18-60, for offences including burglary, robbery, serious violence, theft and handling stolen goods. They have also stopped, searched or questioned more than 100 people.
Superintendent Pete Dobson, who is overseeing the operation, said: "We are still one of the safest boroughs in London, but we don’t take that for granted.
"There was an increase in burglaries across the borough so we have taken direct action and are pleased with the results we have achieved in the first seven days. Merton residents have a right to feel safe in their homes and we are determined that offenders will be brought to justice."
An increasing number of burglaries in the borough have been comitted by offenders breaking in through sliding patio doors. Police recommend householders fit extra locks at the top and bottom and ensure there is an anti-lifting device installed as well as keeping all windows closed in secured.
They are also advising:
March 30, 2011