Operation Safer Homes applauded

He said he was heartened to learn that the number of burglaries had already reduced.

“Things definitely appear to be getting better. Simple precautions could decrease the number of burglaries by maybe even more than 50 per cent, as most cases have been due to people not securing their homes,” he said, adding: “Now with the run-up to Christmas, people need to be more careful. The downturn in the economy might lead certain types of people to consider burglary.”

“While it appears the number of burglaries is still decreasing it could be that a gang, for example, is operating and responsible for half of the current number of break-ins. If they are apprehended then the numbers will drop greatly,” Mr Miller said.

“My advice to people is ‘lock up’. And not just your home, people tend to forget about outdoors, and sheds and garages need to be properly locked, too. It’s really just common sense. Lock up windows and doors and sheds and everything else. Don’t give these people the opportunity to get into your home”.

Asked what types of crime he would like to see being more rigorously targeted, he said: “The DPP is pleased with the current moves to crackdown on drug abuse in the City. The PSNI anti-drugs operation was a great success last year. The DPP and the PSNI work in partnership and we’re hoping the fight against drugs will be just as successful this year, if not better. So we’re really pushing on with the anti-drugs message.”

Mr Miller went on to reveal that the DPP and PSNI were working to find ways of drawing down increased funding particularly to fight the increased threat from dissident republicans and described the recent dissident activity, and bombing of Strand Road PSNI station as “quite disheartening”.

Launching ‘Operation Safer Homes’ last week PSNI Acting Chief Inspector Jon Burrows appealed for public to support the efforts of the police by ensuring property was secured.

“Burglars do not have time to pick locks and remove windowpanes, so leaving windows and doors unlocked is like inviting them into your home.

For more information log on to www.psni.police.uk or contact the Crime Prevention Officer by telephoning 0845 600 8000.