Police have arrested a suspected burglar, aged just 13, during a crackdown on break and enter offences at Armidale in the state’s New England region.

Around 1.30am today, officers from the New England Local Area Command stopped a blue Holden sedan in Kirkwood Street, Armidale.

A short time earlier police had received a report of a nearby house break-in.

When officers searched the vehicle, it is alleged they discovered a number of stolen valuables, including mobile phones, hidden under the front seat.

Police arrested the 13-year-old passenger who was taken to the Armidale Police Station to assist with inquiries.

The arrest has occurred during a Police crackdown on home burglaries in the New England area.

At 2am on Sunday (22 February), police made another, unrelated arrest, stopping a man on a bicycle as they patrolled Watson Avenue.

He was allegedly found in possession of fingerless gloves, screwdrivers, hex keys, pliers, a folding knife and a slingshot.

The 44-year-old was charged with possess house breaking implements, possess prohibited weapon, custody of a knife in a public place and not wearing a helmet.

He will face court on Monday 16 March.

New England Local Area Commander, Fred Trench, said his officers are working hard to deal with a series of break and enter offences in the area.

“These arrests show that we are taking this issue very seriously,” Superintendent Trench said.

“In addition to our car crews, we are utilising bicycle police, foot patrols, the dog unit and investigators in the fight against break-ins,” he added.

“We need the community’s help as well. “The public are our eyes and ears.

“If you spot someone acting suspiciously in your neighbourhood, let us know and we will act,” Supt Trench said.

The New England Commander is reminding Armidale residents they can minimise the risks by being security conscious.

“Unfortunately, the days where we could leave our doors and windows open, particularly during the hotter months, are gone.

“Thieves will take advantage of lax security, ensure your home is locked whenever possible,” Supt Trench warned, “Don’t make it easy for them.”

Anyone with information about break-in offences in the New England area is urged to contact Armidale Police on (02) 6771 0699 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.