BURGLARIES in Southampton have gone up by more than 75 per cent since the turn of the year.

A total of 118 break-ins have taken place across the city since January 1, up 51 from the same period last year.

Police chiefs are so concerned they launched a major crackdown yesterday involving dozens of officers in a bid to catch some of those responsible.

Last night one of the city’s top officers urged residents to be on their guard, keep their homes secure and report stolen goods.

Chief Inspector Stuart Murray’s appeal came with news that burglaries were up 76.1 per cent this month.

Thieves have struck at homes across the city – including student properties.

Items stolen range from laptops, iPods and TVs to jewellery, cash cards and wallets.

Chief Insp Murray said: “It’s a big increase and we are concerned about it – that’s the reason we are putting extra resources into it and doing everything we can.

“The message we want to send out to residents is that if they are not happy with something they see, or they witness something suspicious, call us.

“When you leave for work in the morning, think about what you have left on display.

“If you get offered stolen goods at knocked down prices, let us know.”

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As reported in the Daily Echo, the rising tide of burglaries started at the end of 2010. Police received reports of 139 house burglaries in Southampton in December compared to 114 in the same period in 2009 – a near 22 per cent rise.

Raiders were found to be accessing garden sheds and using tools they stole to break into homes. In particular, houses were being targeted in Portswood, Bassett, Millbrook, Polygon, Coxford and Banister Park.

‘Ring of steel’ Yesterday, around 35 officers joined forces to create a “ring of steel” around a known rat-run for criminals.

Operation Shield saw marked and unmarked cars patrolling the A27 corridor from Bursledon to North Baddesley.

More than a dozen vehicles were seized, 29 people were stopped and checked and one person was arrested in a move designed to disrupt illegal activity and send a message to burglars.

Anyone wishing to report suspicious activity should call police on Hampshire Constabulary’s non-emergency 101 number. If they see a break-in taking place, they should dial 999.