Car crime blitz results in more than 280 arrests in one month

In Doncaster, 97 arrests were made, 67 in Rotherham and 33 in Barnsley as part of Operation Lockdown.

Officers used ‘sting’ vehicles fitted with cameras and trackers in a bid to catch thieves as well as automatic numberplate recognition (ANPR) cameras on major routes.

Other activity focused on scrapyards and second-hand dealers, with the aim of a crackdown on stolen goods.

Chief Insp Iain Chorlton said: “I am very pleased with these arrests, as they are proof of the amount of dedication and commitment our staff are putting into reducing these crimes on a daily basis.

“We are also urging the public to keep their possessions safe by keeping their homes secure, locking their doors and windows and not leaving items on show in their vehicles.”

“But the message to criminals is - we will catch you.”

Anyone with information on burglary and car crime should call South Yorkshire Police on 101. Alternatively, people can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.