OPERATION Raffles, a permanent anti-burglary initiative begun in Newcastle West in April, has had a good start with 28 arrests in just one month.

Northumbria Police are leading the operation, part of a burglary strategy partnership which is gathering information to convict thieves across the area.

The 28 people arrested so far have been charged with offences including house burglaries, burglary, theft and handling.

The operation has involved an increase in high visibility patrols as well as covert operations.

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

Detective Chief Inspector Gary Calvert said: "We would like to reassure the communities living in Newcastle West that we are coming down hard on offenders who are committing these crimes.