Norwich: Five Arrested In Burglary Raids

30 January 2013, 12:56 | Updated: 30 January 2013, 13:03

Five people have been arrested after police, investigating burglaries in Norfolk, searched homes across Norwich this morning.

Uniform and plain clothed officers search eight properties as part of an operation codenamed Operation Duval.

It's focusing on those suspected of committing house burglaries in the city as well as those thought to be involved in handling stolen goods.

Homes were raided in Union Street, Orchard Street, Walpole Gardens, Wessex Street, Heigham Street and Somerleyton Gardens in Norwich, Milestone Close in Costessey and Newton Close in Newton St Faith.

Five people have been arrested - a 29-year-old man from Newton Close, a 24-year-old man from Union Street, a 21-year-old man from Orchard Street, a 29-year-old man from Milestone Close, Costessey and a 23-year-old from Heigham Street.

All were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit burglary between September 2012 and January 2013 and are being held for questioning at Wymondham Police Station.

Officer have seized some property from the addresses including a Fiat from Newton Close.

Detective Inspector Richard Graveling, from Norwich CID, led today's early morning operation. He said: "This action forms part of an ongoing policing campaign to clamp down on domestic burglaries in and around the city.

"Today's operation has been a success and sends a clear message to those considering being involved in burglary or handling stolen goods.

"Our message to would-be offenders is simple  "we will not stand for this and action will be taken against those suspected of committing offences."

Norwich's senior police officer, Superintendent Paul Sanford said: "Being a victim of a burglary is extremely traumatic and the effect it can have on individuals is quite significant.  We want to reduce the number of people in the city who have to experience this by locating offenders and by encouraging homeowners to take simple measures to deter potential burglars.

"Tackling burglary is a key priority for the force. We will continue with pro-active measures such as today's operation and we would encourage anyone with information on individuals who are carrying out these crimes or handling stolen property to report it to us immediately."