Operation Spartacus targets car criminals in East Lancs

Criminals who attack vehicles causing car insurance claims for damage or theft are the target of a new police campaign in Lancashire.

Operation Spartacus, which has just launched and will run throughout February and March, will target prolific car criminals across the east of the county. Officers are to conduct high-profile activities to disrupt those breaking the law.

But police have urged motorists to play their part in helping reduce vehicles crime, which could see them avoid car and van insurance claims.

"We know 50 per cent of thefts happen as a result of a vehicle being left insecure," commented chief inspector Damian Darcy.

"We want to make it difficult for thieves to operate and ask for the public's help by taking a few extra precautions."

He suggested even small measures like locking the vehicle and removing the smallest of items from inside should not be underestimated.

The inspector went on to say that a huge amount of activities will take place to clamp down on the criminals.

Speaking directly to the law-breakers, he concluded: "The police are committed to reducing crime even further and you have two choices - stop now or you will be targeted, caught and face the consequences."

According to Home Office figures, vehicle crime across the country has fallen by 66 per cent since its peak in 1995. In 2007-08, rates fell by 11 per cent on numbers from the previous year. Vehicle crime accounts for 13 per cent of all recorded crimes in England and Wales.

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