A CRACKDOWN on car crime on estates throughout Harwood resulted in a staggering 50pc reduction in thefts and break-ins.

The number of cars stolen was reduced by half as a result of two undercover operations.

Officers from the Tactical Aid Group and "X Cars" - GMP's Traffic Area Support Service - were involved in the 24 hour patrols of estates, car parks and roads throughout the whole area.

Police chiefs decided to mount the operation, which is still going on, after a crime pattern computer showed an alarming increase in the number of cars being attacked or stolen in the Harwood area.

The first phase of the operation over seven days and nights involved community beat bobbies and Tactical Aid Group officers patrolling the area on foot and in cars.

The team was boosted over a second week by their colleagues from the televised "X cars" - experts in the pursuit of suspect vehicles.

Over two nights alone, the team stopped and quizzed 15 people. Many were arrested for car crime, burglaries and drug abuse.

A police spokesman said: "Although the operations have been remarkably successful in reducing crime, the problems have still not disappeared.

"We are still monitoring the situation in Harwood. Our patrols will continue as long as we believe there is a problem which calls for special attention."

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