The number of burglaries across Northern Ireland has reduced by 15%, according to police.

Operation Cordella was was launched in Northern Ireland between 15 February and 13 March.

Figures revealed a 15% drop in overall domestic burglaries from 540 last year to 460 this year. The number of domestic burglaries affecting people over 60 years of age dropped by 29% from 147 last year to 104 this year.

During the operation, police arrested 110 suspects, 68 of them for burglary, and conducted 173 searches of premises and people. Checks were also made by police on 182 suspects to ensure they were adhering to their bail conditions.

A total of 42 charges were brought against individuals, seven people were reported to the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) and one individual was dealt with by way of a discretionary disposal.

Superintendent Simon Walls, PSNI lead for burglary, said: "Our enforcement activity has reduced the incidence of burglaries but we are not complacent. We have worked to focus our resources on locations and individuals and to raise awareness in communities about how people can prevent themselves from becoming victims of crime and keep their property safe.

"As we've said before, burglaries are a violation of the things people hold most dear – the possessions they've worked hard to buy and to enjoy as well as the items of sentimental value they cherish.

"Our higher profile in communities, making sure any burglary hotspots received increased attention, has been effective. For those individuals who have been charged, a conviction will lead to serious consequences. We will now look at how we can extend such operations against a backdrop of competing and finite resources."

(CD)