Crackdown on 'most wanted'

The team will focus on burglary, robbery and vehicle crime

A dedicated arrest squad focusing on south Bradford's "most wanted" criminals has taken to the streets.

The Taskit Team will concentrate on arresting people suspected of committing crimes such as burglary, robbery and vehicle crime.

The nine-strong team, launched on Monday, will also crack down on people wanted on warrant, absconders and those who have breached recall orders or a supervision licence.

Detective Superintendent Geoff Dodd, Bradford South Police Crime Manager, said: "The Taskit Team adds to our armoury. The bottom line is that we will arrest more criminals and bring more of them to justice.

"The team will be entirely focused on tracking down wanted people and putting suspected offenders before the courts."

Stark warning

Initially, the spotlight will be on people whom officers believe are responsible for committing burglaries in the division.

The Taskit Team will work with other plain-clothed staff and uniformed officers.

Mr Dodd added: "The message is simple to those who know we are after them - hand yourselves in before we come knocking on your door."

Since April last year there has been a reduction of 1,000 burglaries in the Bradford South division compared with the previous year.