THREE teenagers have been arrested in connection with a spate of burglaries.

In recent weeks police say they have seen a spike in break ins and car thefts using the "lock snapping" and "hook" methods of entry.

Residents have been warned to take precautions to protect their vehicles and properties against attacks, and contact officers if they have any suspicions.

Following this, Inspector Katie Allen, of Salford North West, has now confirmed that three men, aged 16 and 17, have been arrested on suspicion of burglary and theft.

The trio remain in custody for questioning.

A stolen vehicle has also be recovered.

Insp Allen celebrated the mens' arrests as "good news", adding: "Remember to check your security measures on your property and vehicles and to continue reporting those crimes and suspicious circumstances to us.

"It is with your support we are able to take quick action like this."

The Bolton News: Snapped lock from vehicle. Photo courtesy of GMPSnapped lock from vehicle. Photo courtesy of GMP

The lock snapping method sees burglars use DIY tools to snap the barrel of a door lock in order to open it and gain access to a property.

While the hook method sees sees burglars use a device to reach through a letter box to vehicle keys.

This can be prevented by storing car keys away from your front door, Insp Allen explained.

She continued: "We are working to tackle this problem and I have put together an operation to target this crime type, we have managed to make some arrests and return a number of stolen vehicles already.

"I also want to raise your awareness to this issue to ensure we are working together as a community to best manage the problem."

During the recent spate of offences the crimes are said to have been committed in the early hours of the morning.

Insp Allen issued recommendations for householders to improve domestic security measures, such as CCTV and security lighting, to help confront the issue.

However, she noted that there does not seem to be a trend in type of vehicles targeted.

Although there has also been a concurrent increase in thefts of number plates from vehicles.

Thanking residents for their support, Insp Allen added: "It is vital you report all crimes and suspicious circumstances to the police as soon as you are made aware of them so we can respond quickly and effectively.

"If you have any information in relation to this crime trend which you feel will assist us with our investigation, please contact me either via social media, or via email to SalfordNorthWest@gmp.pnn.police.uk.

"Remember I can't accept reports of crime via these means. If you prefer to remain anonymous, you can always submit information via Crimestoppers."

Reports to police can also by made by calling 101. And Crimestoppers can be reached on 0800 555 111.