A FLEET of covert camera cars have been deployed by detectives in Middlesbrough in a bid to trap thieves targeting vehicles in the town.

Vehicles fitted with tiny cameras are being left in streets, car parks and residential areas where car thieves are known to be operating.

Three youths have already been caught in the operation, others filmed are waiting to be identified.

Detective Sergeant Paul Richardson, of Middlesbrough CID, said: "The vehicles are being deployed on a daily basis around the town and we are now getting results."

Two 16-year-olds and a 19-year-old have been arrested after being caught on camera as they broke into one of the cars.

He added: "Obviously word will get around the criminal fraternity to keep clear of the vehicle which trapped these three.

"But the bad news for thieves is we have quite a number of different vehicles all fitted with mini video cameras."