AN OPERATION to tackle burglaries across Merseyside is now underway to reinforce the crime as a main priority for police.

Operation Castle aims to intensify Merseyside Police's focus on burglary in an attempt to reduce the number of offences, raise community confidence and reassure residents.

They also hope to reduce the number of outstanding named suspects for burglary.

Superintendent Matt Boyle said: "We have listened to the concerns of the local community and want to reassure them that Operation Castle is a big push on tackling burglary and bringing offenders to justice.

"We are putting more patrols out, asking people to report anything suspicious, identifying repeat victims and safeguarding them."

The operation will identify high burglary threats and take action in executing warrants and any possible would-be offenders.

Officers will also visit all residents within 24 hours of a burglary to help reassure them.

Yesterday, police charged three Wirral teenagers with stealing an orange Ford Fiesta. 

Inside the vehicle police recovered an Omega Seamaster watch, which had been stolen from a house in Barnston on February 21 - it has since been returned to the owner.

Superintendent Boyle added: "We are asking the public to be vigilant as we know the vast majority of burglaries are preventable as they are often opportunistic.

"Lock your front and back door even when you are in, set your burglar alarm when you go out or go to be and consider getting CCTV.

"It’s also a good idea to use light timers when you go out at night or away on holiday, keep valuables out of sight, and secure your shed and garage too.

"Look out for your neighbours, especially the elderly and report anything suspicious to us.

"Your home is your castle, hence the name of the operation, and we want the community to feel safe in their own homes.

"We will be working with Neighbourhood Watch schemes so get involved in your local area and help to make a difference down your street."

Anyone with information regarding burglaries is asked to contact Merseyside Police social media desk via twitter @MerPolCC or Facebook Merseyside Police CC.

Information can be passed by calling 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information.