Burglaries have fallen by more than half since the launch of a police operation.

Operation Regulus, which was launched at the beginning of January, has seen police in Harrow using predictive crime mapping technology to tackle burglary in the borough.

Predictive mapping technology uses previously recorded crime data to identify where future burglaries are more likely to occur.

Officers have been focusing on monitoring known offenders, using predictive mapping technology and other intelligence, before then being deployed to specific locations at times of the day that have been identified as a concern.

Electronic signs were placed at major routes into the borough informing motorists of the increased police activity, and cars equipped with Automatic Number Plate Recognition have been on patrol to detect and intercept criminals.

During the operation, officers have carried out traffic stops, high visibility patrols, covert patrols and predictive mapping – along with conducting street briefings to provide crime prevention advice and listened to the concerns of the community.

As of January 27, the operation has seen a 55 per cent decrease in burglary for the east neighbourhoods area of Harrow.

Sergeant Muneeb Ishtiaq, who leads the operation, said: "So far Operation Regulus has been a resounding success. The operation will be extended for a further month to enable us to build on these results.

“We will be continually assessing local crime data to ensure we can position our resources for maximum effect."