A new police unit has been formed to tackle a rise in car crimes in the borough.

The Motor Vehicle Crime Squad, headed by a detective superintendent, has two representatives from the Territorial Support Group and five PCs.

In its first week alone it contributed to the arrests of three known car thieves and has begun compiling information about the borough’s car criminals.

PC Danny Kendall said: “We want people in the borough to feel their cars are safe and secure. It is the worst feeling in the world to leave your car and come back and find it gone or broken into.

“Hotspots are areas like train station car parks and areas where cars are left for a long time.

“We urge the public to get in touch with us if they see anything suspicious so we can deal with it swiftly.”

If you see or know anyone who is involved in car crime call Croydon Police on 0300 1231212 or call crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.