ACTION to target distraction burglars and rogue traders in east Suffolk has resulted in more than 330 vehicles being stopped four months.As part of the continuing campaign to stop those who target some of the most vulnerable people, police have been out in force on average one day a week each week to stop commercial vehicles and talk to the occupants.

ACTION to target distraction burglars and rogue traders in east Suffolk has resulted in more than 330 vehicles being stopped in four months.

As part of the continuing campaign to stop those who target vulnerable people, police have been out in force on average one day a week each week to stop commercial vehicles and talk to the occupants.

The aim is to check the occupants are legitimate and to then deal with appropriately for example giving genuine trades people advice on crime reduction while taking action against those found to be committing offences.

Since June 21 and the end of October - the first day of the campaign - 335 vehicles have been stopped, 31 vehicles seized and around 50 fixed penalty notices issued.

A number of people have also been arrested including three suspected of committing distraction burglaries, three suspected of lead thefts and a number of others for drink or disqualified driving and document offences. Police officers taking part have also submitted dozens of intelligence reports.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Quantrell said: “The days have meant a larger number of officers are out and about specifically targeting vehicles that may be involved in distraction burglary and rogue trader-type offences.

“Stop checks allow us to gather information which can help in the prevention and detection of crime and to check the vehicle and its occupants are legitimate.

“A high visibility police presence can act both as a deterrent to criminals and as reassurance to residents and means we can react more quickly if we receive reports of suspicious activity.”