Vehicle crime is under the spotlight as police in Ashford launch an operation to reduce thefts and arrest offenders.

Hot spot areas have been identified from crime data so resources can be targeted against thefts of, and from, vehicles.

Detectives will be using forensic evidence and prioritising the arrest of suspects who are wanted in connection with vehicle-related crimes.

They will also be working to deter and disrupt known offenders who have a recent history of vehicle crimes.

When suspects are arrested, officers will seek to bring them to justice as soon as possible, remand them in custody or release them on bail with strict conditions designed to reduce the risk of further offending while they wait for a court date.

During the operation, officers will also prioritise all information about vehicle crimes and suspects and may carry out search warrants.

Kent Police is also promoting crime reduction messages to help people keep their vehicles safe.

As a significant proportion of vehicle crime occurs because of unlocked vehicles, the main advice is to lock and secure it.

For more on how to protect your vehicle, go to www.kent.police.uk/advice/property_security/vehicle/prot_veh.html