Police in Hart have today launched a six-week operation to tackle acquisitive crime across the district.
 
The focus of Op Capon will be on burglary, theft and rural crime and the operation will see the different policing teams in the district working together.
 
As part of the operation, officers want to encourage members of the community to work closely with police to help reduce crime.
 
Crime prevention events like tack marking will be taking place during the operation to ensure that if someone does become a victim of crime then their property can be easily returned to them.
 
Officers will also be working closely with scrap metal companies across Hart so that anyone trying to sell on stolen goods can be stopped.
 
Inspector Ben Taylor, of the Hart district, said: “This operation is aimed at improving our approach to dealing with crime alongside the community and our partner agencies.
 
“By working together we can reduce crime across the district and improve the quality of life for everyone in Hart. 
 
“We have a large rural area here and we want to encourage members of the public to contact us if they witness any suspicious activity, particularly in secluded areas.
 
“Crime prevention will also be a focus of the operation and we want to make sure our residents, business owners and visitors are aware of steps they should take to secure their homes and property.
 
“Sometimes preventing a burglary can be as simple as double locking the front door with the key and we want to make sure everyone gets this message.
 
“We also want the public to think about security for their sheds and garages which have been targeted by thieves stealing bikes, tools and valuable garden equipment.
 
“Throughout the district we already have information sharing schemes such as Farm Watch and Neighbourhood Watch and we would encourage people to get involved in these too.
 
“To contact your local Safer Neighbourhoods team or to report any suspicious incidents to us call 101 or the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
 
For more information about policing in your area visit the local policing pages of Hampshire Constabulary at www.hampshire.police.uk.