NINE arrests were made and five vehicles recovered in an intensified police campaign of action across Somerset against personal robbery last week.

Operation Calibre was the second annual week of action and saw nine arrests for serious and acquisitive crime – which covers domestic burglary, personal robbery, theft from a person, and theft of and from a motor vehicle.

Two stolen cars and three stolen motorcycles were recovered and another car was seized in relation to driving offences.

Det Insp Keith Smith, who led Operation Calibre for the Avon and Somerset Constabulary, said: “Tackling robbery remains an important priority for policing, and we welcomed the opportunity to collaborate with our colleagues across England and Wales for this co-ordinated period of intensification around robbery, which is a significant contributor to violent crime in the UK.

“Robbery can cause significant and long-lasting trauma to victims, impacting on their confidence and lives.

“Anybody can become a target of robbery, but it is often some of the most vulnerable in society who are targeted.

“The week saw some good results, however, it does not stop here.

“Robbery is a crime we continue to focus on, with a variety of work, conducted at local level, targeting suspects and locations to deter and pursue those responsible.

“We commonly see offenders who commit robbery connected to other serious crimes.

Blue lights illuminate the scene as police swoop as part of Operation calibre.
Blue lights illuminate the scene as police swoop as part of Operation calibre. (ASP)

“We want to be clear – criminal behaviour will not be tolerated in Avon and Somerset, and we will pursue and apprehend those involved, taking them off the streets.

“If you do become a victim of a robbery or have witnessed a robbery that has just happened, please report it to us immediately by calling 999.

“If you have seen suspicious behaviour, have concerns, or have information that may assist in apprehending a criminal, please call 101.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford said: “The results from Avon and Somerset Police from this year’s Operation Calibre crackdown show the zero tolerance approach to personal robbery in our communities. 

“Personal robbery is traumatic and devastating.

“Everybody should feel able to go about their daily lives without living in fear of becoming a victim of this type of crime.

“I urge everybody to be vigilant and to be aware of their surroundings and follow the advice provided to help prevent this crime.”