Thirteen people have been arrested as part of a blitz on car crime.

The arrests, made during dawn swoops at addresses across Oxford during the past three days, have led to nine men being charged with offences including theft of cars and thefts from cars.

Three others have been released on police bail pending further inquiries, and six are still being questioned by detectives. During the operation, codenamed Breadline, a team of eight officers targeted known offenders.

The arrests are a pre-emptive strike ahead of a Thames Valley Police force-wide autocrime campaign being launched in September.

Operation leader Det Sgt Vince Gilio said: "Oxford police area is committed to tackling autocrime. This is the first of many initiatives to deal with those who make a living from it.

"Over the next few weeks and months a wide range of police moves will take place. They will include a publicity campaign to encourage the public to help us by improving vehicle security and reporting crimes. I want those who profit from autocrime to feel it is not worth targeting people who live and work in Oxford."