Burglary raids claim 300 arrests

Londoners are being advised to make their homes secure over Christmas

Nearly 300 people have been arrested as part of a police crackdown on burglaries across London over the festive period.

Since mid-November, Operation Spotlight has rounded up 280 suspects wanted on warrants for burglary offences.

Further arrests will continue into the new year, the Metropolitan Police said.

The Met hopes to target burglaries during the Christmas period when households are more likely to have valuable items.

A publicity campaign will also run alongside the operation offering Londoners crime prevention advice.

"Whilst burglary is at a 30-year low for London, the Met remains committed to driving down this crime yet further," said Commander Mark Simmons, head of the Violent Crime Directorate.

"We will be working hard over the festive season focusing on known offenders and raising crime prevention advice."