| Detectives today launched Operation After Dark, which coincides with the onset of darker evenings and a seasonal rise in domestic housebreakings. There will be foot and mobile patrols in all areas as part of the operation, which runs until the end of the month.
Detective Inspector Willie Semple revealed police have also identified a number of persistent thieves responsible for causing misery to numerous householders.
“As part of our intelligence-led method of policing, we look to identify active criminals — in this particular case housebreakers — and target them,” he said.
“There are a minimal number of people who cause a lot of grief to decent people in Dundee. The motive behind these crimes is usually to fund a drug habit.
“It’s hard to put a figure on it, because it depends on who is in or out of prison, but I would say the number of these persistent housebreakers runs into double figures.
“We are taking steps to target and arrest these individuals and remove them from circulation.”
The detective said they would also concentrate efforts on any areas identified as being vulnerable to break-ins, and plain-clothes operations could be staged if needed.
Figures for Dundee show 332 domestic house-breakings reported between April and August, up almost 30% on the same period last year.
A study by the Scottish Executive last month showed that, despite significant recent progress, the incidence of break-ins to homes in the city is still significantly above the national average.
DI Semple said, “Although I am confident a high detection rate is being maintained, we also look to reduce the overall trend in housebreakings being committed.”
That has included making it more difficult for opportunists to commit crime, working with the council to introduce measures such as improved street lighting and CCTV coverage.
Householders are being urged to “take every step possible” to reduce their chances of becoming a victim.
DI Semple continued, “A simple thing like leaving a light on or setting timer switches can make a significant difference. This makes your home look occupied.
“Get into the habit of setting your burglar alarm every time you go out.
“Be a good neighbour. If you seen anyone acting suspiciously, get in touch with us or pass information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.” |
