POLICE in a North-East city have launched a campaign targeting thieves in car parks and shopping centres.

Operation Jaguar will focus on known offenders in the west of the Sunderland, tackling all types of acquisitive crime such as theft, robbery, burglary, shoplifting and vehicle crime.

The activity forms part of Northumbria Police’s forcewide acquisitive crime campaign "Don’t let thieves steal your Christmas".

Sunderland West Neighbourhood Inspector Cheryl Warcup, said: "We’re determined not to let thieves ruin Christmas for people and will be disrupting their criminal activity and making sure they face the consequences of their actions.

"Extra officers will be on patrol around car parks and parking areas to deter any potential thieves. We would really urge residents to help us and play their part by taking some simple crime prevention steps and make it even harder for them."