Suspected thieves snared after van break-in

Two men have been arrested after the victim of a van breakin in Houghton captured the incident on CCTV.

Northumbria Police were called to a report that two males had broken into a van in the Sunderland Street area of Houghtonshortlyafter3pmon Sunday.

When the victim realised around £800 worth of tools had been stolen from inside the vehicle he rang police and checked his CCTV system to seeiftheoffenderswerecaught on camera.

Footage showed the two offenders and details were passed on to the police meaningofficerswereabletoquickly identify their prime suspects that the force says are wellknown in the area.

Within a matter of hours, the pair thought to be responsible were in handcuffs and were taken to station and into a police cell.

The two males arrested – aged 20 and 25 – were interviewed in connection with the offence.

Detective Sergeant Chris Raper-Smith, of Northumbria Police,said:“Thesetwoarrests were made possible because of the quick-thinking and decisive actions from the victim, andIwouldliketowholeheartedly thank them for doing the right thing.

“After noticing their van had been targeted by thieves, they picked up the phone and rangpolice–andtheirdetailed and timely report allowed officers to quickly hone in on the two suspects.

“We will continue to take swiftandrobustactionagainst suspected thieves and burglars, but as ever, the public are our eyes and ears within our communities.

“If you see anybody acting suspiciously, or have been a victim of crime, always report it–andthatcanallowustotake subsequent action.”

It’s not been great for pedestrians and motorists, but the snow has brought some semblance of normality to our lives; it’s winter, we should expect snow and ice. Now let the virus be gone, just as the snow will melt away.

Irene Snaithy, sent via email.