Three arrested as police investigate rise in burglaries and car thefts across south Leeds

West Yorkshire Police have increased neighbourhood patrols across Middleton and Belle Isle after a recent increase in Burglaries and theft of motor vehicles in the ward.

While on mobile patrol on Thursday, officers reported sighting a Blue Audi Q2 showing stolen in a burglary the previous evening. The vehicle drove at speed to avoid the officers.

During the search officers sighted a white male jumping over a fence away from the stolen vehicle, whilst he made good his escape.

Officers found a white Skoda Fabia immediately alongside the Audi, which contained three occupants. Enquiries identified this vehicle was on cloned plates and was also recently stolen. All three were arrested arrested on suspicion of Theft of Motor Vehicle and burglary.

Subsequent searches have also located a number of bladed weapons and significant about of cannabis for which they have also been arrested.

“Enquiries are ongoing regarding these individuals and any other offences they could be involved in and our patrols will continue over coming weeks to deter further offending and identify any further offenders,” a West Yorkshire Police spokesperson added.