Shoplifting crackdown over Christmas in North Shields hailed as a success by Northumbria Police

A coordinated crackdown on shoplifting over the Christmas period in North Shields town centre has been branded a success by Northumbria Police.

Officers launched 'Operation Cracker' on November 27 following fears that the festive period could lead to a rise in criminal offences in the area.

The action saw police carry out 19 arrests, seized two weapons and visited 76 local businesses in the North Tyneside town.

Of the 19 arrested, six have been banned from returning to the area under conditional bail restrictions, while another five have been committed to prison.

The policing operation saw high-visibility patrols deployed daily in North Shields town centre, with a focus around key businesses.

The work of officers resulted in 79 stop checks and six stop searches being carried out.

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Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant James Younas, of Northumbria Police, has hailed the success of the operation.

He said: "Christmas should not be a time of year where families and friends feel unsafe as they prepare for the festive period.

"Operation Cracker is a fantastic way for us to engage with the local community and work together to tackle this type of criminality.

"The operation has delivered brilliant results, and the positive response from shoppers and shop workers alike is great to see.

"However, we want to reassure the community this is not a one-off. Criminal activity of this kind is not confined to the Christmas period, and we will continue to work to ensure the town centre remains safe for all visitors."