22 arrests as police target West Lothian houseraiders

May 21 2009 by Debbie Spalding, West Lothian Courier

OPERATION Focus continued this week with police rounding up 22 suspected housebreakers.

Addresses in the Livingston, Bathgate and Armadale areas have been targeted as the multi-agency initiative continues.

Phase one of Operation Focus saw a total of 63 suspected drug dealers being arrested in West Lothian at the end of April.

And as with the drugs raids, police said last week’s activity was widely supported by the local community.

Community officers on the streets have been carrying out increased patrols throughout the area, communicating with the local community and responding to their needs.

Detective chief inspector Euan Morrison said: “A significant number of people have now been arrested as part of Operation Focus, which sends out a strong message that we are dedicated to supporting safer, stronger communities.

“By identifying and arresting these suspected housebreakers, we are building on Focus’ success and making sure criminals are no doubt, if they are indulging in illegal activity there is no place for them here in West Lothian.

“The aim of Focus is to improve the quality of life for the people of West Lothian, and this can only be achieved with the support of local communities, and close working with the council and other partners.”

West Lothian Council leader Peter Johnston, leader of West Lothian Council, said the latest bout action would improve community safety and the quality of life for people in West Lothian.

He added: “Local people can help to make a difference by reporting suspicious behaviour, confidentially, by calling the Operation Focus hotline.”

The dedicated Focus hotline is still generating a large amount of information and police are asking people across West Lothian to continue to use it to report any information or concerns about suspicious activity in their area.

MSP Mary Mulligan said this week she fully supported the campaign and has raised a motion in the Scottish Parliament congratulating all involved.

“People want tough action against criminals and the Police have my 100 per cent support for their ongoing campaign” she said.

“I know from speaking to local people that they have warmly welcomed Operation Focus and I want to again thank Lothian and Borders Police and their community partners for their sterling efforts.”

Anyone who wants to report a crime can telephone 0800 915509, or e-mail operationfocus@lbp.pnn.police.uk.