OPERATION Wildfire, which pooled specialist police resources in Canterbury to target burglars, drug users and serious motoring offenders, has brought 78 arrests. More than £12,000 worth of stolen property was recovered including a fibreglass boat, seven outboard engines and several motorcycles. A variety of illegal drugs were also seized.

During the month-long operation, non-residential burglary was reduced by 25 per cent and car crime fell by more than five percent. A man recently released from jail has been charged with a string of burglaries.

Ch Insp Paul Brandon said: "A lot of work and careful planning went into making this operation a success. By combining the knowledge of local officers with the expertise of specialist teams from all over the county, we have been able to catch and charge local criminals and bring them to court."