Police investigating a string of vehicle break-ins made an arrest last night.

Sunglasses, a dashcam and cash were among of number of items to be stolen from vehicles across Abbots Langley over Christmas and New Year.

Hertfordshire Constabulary says a 21-year-old man has been arrested in connection with 12 offences which occurred in Abbots Langley between December 20 and January 7.

They were a mixture of theft from a motor vehicle and vehicle interference offences.

The man was arrested by police officers last night (Wednesday January 22) and taken into custody.

The community in Abbots Langley became so concerned about the number of vehicle break-ins and burglaries that a security firm organised a meeting to advise villagers on how to keep their property safe.

Sergeant Mark Palmer, from the Abbots Langley Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “We know that there was understandably a lot of discussion about these offences on social media over the Christmas period, so I am pleased to share that an arrest has been made as part of the investigation.

“We are doing all we can to crack down on vehicle crime because we know it has a huge impact on residents’ feelings of safety and security. It is an unsettling feeling to know that someone has been in your vehicle, even if nothing has been taken.

“There has been an increase in both overt and covert resources within the Abbots Langley area during hotspot time periods in response to these crimes. I would like to reassure residents that even if you don’t see a high-visibility police presence, this does not mean we aren’t there.

“In a few of the reported cases, the vehicles had been left insecure so we would like to remind motorists to triple check that their car or van is locked before leaving it by trying to open one of the door handles.

“Lastly, we rely on the public to be our eyes and ears so if you see someone acting suspiciously in your street, or you think a crime is in progress, please don’t hesitate to dial 999.

“Try to give the operator as much information as possible, such as a description of the person(s) and any vehicles they are travelling in. We know that doorbell cameras are becoming even more popular so if you ever capture any footage that you would like to share with us, please get in touch.”