POLICE are to stage a blitz against car criminals across West Yorkshire.
Over the next six weeks there will be high-visibility and covert operations, backed up by high-tech roadside checks.
These checks will use computers linked to the Police National Computer.
The Steer Clear Campaign - part of the Target drive - starts today. It will have police working with officials from trading standards, the DVLA and councils to disrupt crime and arrest prolific offenders.
The roadside checks will be done with the Automatic Number Plate Recognition video computer system.
It links directly to the Police National Computer and immediately shows up vehicles that have been linked to crime or are not insured.
Assistant Chief Constable Grahame Maxwell said: "The Steer Clear Campaign is set to give the region's criminals a very rude awakening.
"We'll be maintaining the pressure on those who commit vehicle crime with six continuous weeks of operations."
There will also be a strong crime prevention element to the campaign, to show people how they can avoid becoming victims of vehicle crime.
Police community support officers will visit problem areas to distribute literature and advice on how people can best secure their cars.
Mr Maxwell added: "People can seriously reduce their chances of becoming a victim of vehicle crime by taking simple precautions.
"We'll be giving security advice to the public and will be looking to increase people's awareness about taking more responsibility for their vehicles and contents."
Target - West Yorkshire's biggest-ever crackdown on crime and the fear of crime - will be joining forces with Crimestoppers to support the initiative.
Local communities will be encouraged to help reduce vehicle crime in their area by passing on information about those responsible.
Crimestoppers regional co-ordinator, Det Sgt Ian Froggett, said: "We would welcome any information that could help us to reduce the number of vehicle crimes.
"All callers stay anonymous. Nobody will know you called Crimestoppers unless you tell them.
"Your information, no matter how brief, could prove invaluable. We will act against those responsible, wherever possible.
"If somebody gives information which leads to an arrest, they may prevent further crimes. Don't fear crime; make offenders fear committing it," he said.
Phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
