POLICE have made 79 arrests since a force launched a permanent anti-burglary initiative in Newcastle West in April, it has been revealed.

Operation Raffles, spearheaded by Northumbria Police, is part of a burglary strategy partnership which is gathering information to convict thieves across the area.

Of the 79 arrested, 32 people have been charged, ten have been cautioned while others are either under investigation or no further action is being taken.

The operation has involved high visibility patrols, including the mobile security television unit, and covert operations.

Information is being fed through the Neighbourhood Watch and Community and Police Enforcement schemes.

Community beat managers are visiting community forums along with the crime prevention officer.

Detective Chief Inspector Gary Calvert said: "A third of our burglaries have been committed because of insecure windows and doors.

"Despite the hot weather people must remember to make sure windows or doors are locked or secured.