Five people have been arrested after a spate of vehicle crime in Dorchester.

Police were made aware of incidents around areas of the town and Poundbury over the past few weeks. 

Now, it has been revealed that five individuals have been arrested, with stolen vehicles being recovered and returned to their respective owners.

A spokesperson for Dorset Police said: “The Neighbourhood Policing Team are fully aware of a series of reported vehicle crime in recent weeks and are exploring all lines of enquiry available to us.

“Our patrols have been stepped up in the areas known to be affected and we would ask anyone with concerns to please speak with us.

“We would like to thank the public for their assistance and providing us with information so far in relation to the current series of vehicle crime reports – this is vital to enabling us to conduct investigations and obtain an intelligence picture of what is happening.

“To date, five individuals have been arrested. A number of vehicles have also been recovered and returned to their owners.

“Please continue to report your concerns to us so we can take the appropriate action and direct our patrols accordingly.

“Also remember to ensure vehicles are locked and all valuables are removed.”

The Echo reported that residents in the Cambridge Road area of the county town had been left too scared to leave their home as shocking CCTV footage emerged of a gang of people opening cars. 

Police said they were stepping up patrols after residents reported break-ins, as well as vandalism, with some cars in the area being keyed.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at https://orlo.uk/CiwvJ or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240155683.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at https://orlo.uk/3Cqni or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.