POLICE have made a fourth arrest as they continue their crackdown on a gang behind Southampton's summer crimewave.

Officers say an 18-year-old has been arrested in relation to a series of burglaries and car thefts in Southampton.

It comes after the arrests of another 18-year-old man and two 16-year-old boys - as part of Hampshire Constabulary's 'Operation Hawk'.

The investigation was launched earlier this month after a spate of burglaries in the city.

READ: Police step up patrols in hunt for gang behind spate of Southampton burglaries and car thefts

Burglars broke into homes across Southampton and West End, took the homeowner's keys and stole their cars.

In response, officers have stepped-up patrols in Bitterne, Sholing, Portswood, Hedge End and West End - the areas that have been affected.

Officers say they we will continue to pursue those responsible.

One of those arrested, a 16-year-old boy, has already been charged with two burglaries.

Another 16-year-old boy was arrested and questioned by officers.

He has been released but remains under investigation.

An 18-year-old man arrested yesterday has been released from police custody, but he also remains under investigation.

Officers have also reminded residents in the city to lock accessible doors and windows and take keys out of the lock and place well away from the door.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 and quote Operation Hawk.