Telford burglary suspects arrested

The four men, all in their twenties, were detained at an address in Pageant Drive, Aqueduct shortly before 10.30am. Items of property suspected of being stolen were also seized.

Detective Inspector Greg Lane said the men were taken into custody at Malinsgate police station on suspicion of carrying out burglaries in the area.

Officers from Telford’s Proactive CID team made the arrests under warrant as part of Citadel, the West Mercia Police initiative focussing on reducing burglaries and arresting offenders.

Since Citadel was launched last autumn, the number of homes burgled across the West Mercia force area has dropped by 3.9 per cent. In Telford, there has been a 5.5 per cent reduction.

Det Insp Lane said: “Under Operation Citadel, we have analysts examining where burglaries are taking place, we target known criminals and identify stolen and suspicious vehicles using automatic number plate recognition equipment.

“This helps build up a picture of where crime is happening and where we need to focus police resources.”

He also praised the public in helping reduce burglaries. “We urge people to report any suspicious activity by calling 101. We also appeal for any information about crime or those responsible for committing offences.

“Information supplied by residents in our local communities plays a big part in reducing crime and disorder. Support of this nature from members of the public is absolutely essential and can make a real difference.”

Details can also be given to the anonymous Crimestoppers charity by calling 0800 555 111.