EXTRA police patrols around Slough are being rolled out immediately as part of a bid to crack down on burglaries.

Thames Valley Police is bringing in the patrols, by uniformed and plain clothed officers, as it launches anti-burglar campaign Operation Clockwork, with immediate effect.

The force said the campaign was a priority for Slough's Local Policing Area and it had executed three drug warrants today, Tuesday, October 10, as drugs often fuelled the crime.

Det Sgt Lorna Fox from Slough Investigation Hub, said: “Drug supply goes on to fuel such crime such as burglary. So today three drugs warrants have been executed in Slough and there will be further ongoing law enforcement activity designed to keep the pressure on those responsible for drug supply in Slough.

"This campaign is the priority for Slough’s Local Policing Area. The Neighbourhood and Investigative Policing Teams are working together to focus on reducing burglary. "

Between September 2016 and August 2017, 179 burglaries were recorded in the town, which is 4.38 per cent of all crime. Thirteen burglaries were reported in August 2017 alone.

Det Sgt Fox added: “Our aim is to deter the criminals from entering our homes and ensure that we are doing all we can to protect our property, alongside ongoing investigations to prosecute offenders.

"We need the public’s help to achieve this. We’re suggesting people should invest in a timer switch to set a light to come on to ensure homes look occupied when people are out. Also we would urge people always to lock windows and doors and set alarms, if they have one, when they go out.

"We will be sending uniformed and plain clothed police officers out on the streets to provide reassurance and extra patrols.

"We urge residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity to the police and together we will aim to reduce the number of victims of burglary this year.”

Visit www.thamesvalleyalert.co.uk for further crime prevention advice.