HAMPSHIRE police have revealed that more than 300 homes were broken into during the run-up to Christmas - including 92 in Southampton.

Burglars also targeted more than 270 sheds and garages across the county, 66 of which were in the New Forest.

A total of 55 people were arrested in relation to 112 offences, 16 of whom faced formal action.

Police have announced the outcome of Operation Banish, which aimed to reduce the number of pre-Christmas burglaries and maximise the amount of forensic evidence obtained when crimes were committed.

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A police spokesperson: "Between November 29 and December 31 a total of 313 residential burglaries were reported, 92 of which were in Southampton.

"A further 279 break-ins to sheds and garages were also reported."

The spokesperson said police attended 567 of the 592 incidents, with officers arriving within an hour of the call being received in 246 (43%) of cases.

They added: "Forensic opportunities were identified at 92 burglaries when specialist officers attended.

"Enquiries are ongoing in these investigations to identify further suspects as results from these forensic opportunities continue to be obtained.

"A total of 153 social media posts relating to burglary arrests, charges, crime prevention, and appeals were issued between December 6 and December 31 across Neighbourhood Policing Facebook and Twitter accounts."

One of the break-ins occurred at Thomas Road, North Baddesley.

Police rushed to the scene after a neighbour heard noises and noticed torches being used inside the property. A 30-year-old man was subsequently charged with burglary and is due to appear at Southampton Crown Court on January 25.

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Chief Inspector Marcus Cator, who led Operation Banish, said: "We understand how distressing burglary can be for victims.

"It’s not simply a case of valuables being stolen but the emotional impact of this and the effect it can have on people feeling safe in their own home.

"It's so important that people report suspicious activity as it can help us prevent offending."

Chief Insp Cator said information gathered by Neighbourhood Teams helped officers involved in Operation Banish target their resources.

He added: “We’ve made some significant arrests and are working hard with the forensic opportunities that have presented themselves to secure further evidence and convictions.

“Traditionally burglary reports increase around Christmas with darker evenings and people buying valuables as presents.

"I’m pleased that teams from across the force have tackled this issue so confidently and provided an excellent level of service to our communities."

Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones said: “Targeted action by the Constabulary is having a positive impact across a number of areas. I am particularly pleased to see strong results in Operation Banish, which has seen a focus on those individuals that are considered at high risk of committing burglary.

"When comparing data for December 2019 to December 2021, Operation Banish contributed to a 7.8% reduction (45 fewer in 2021) in reported residential burglaries in four weeks.

“Burglary is one of those crimes that you have told me matter to you most.

"The impact of theft, in particular burglary, can cause significant distress to victims. The invasion of your privacy can leave lasting effects.

"Protecting victims and catching the criminals who commit these crimes will remain a high priority."