THIEVES have been caught handling stolen goods and stealing a car. 

Two people have been arrested following increased police patrols in Regents Park Road and Mill Road.

One was arrested for "vehicle theft" and the other for "handling stolen goods". 

It comes following reports from "concerned residents".

A stolen moped was also reportedly recovered by police. 

Over the weekend an armed response unit and dog support unit were called to patrol Southampton's streets.

The patrols were part of a crackdown to tackle increased violence in the Southampton West area.

Officers supported by an armed response unit and police dog unit used special powers to stop anyone or any vehicle suspected to be involved in violent crimes.

They "seized a catapult, drugs and arrested a driver who gave a positive breath test".

Last week a gang of up to six people on mopeds "stabbed a 31-year-old man" in Tangmere Drive.

Section 60 powers were used to give officers the power to stop and search anyone in the Mansel Park, Green Park, St James Park, Shirley High Street, Warren Avenue, Coxford Road, Olive Road, Regents Park, Lords Hill District Centre and surrounding areas.