Thefts were reduced by two-thirds in the west end of Aberdeen over the last month, thanks to a police operation carried out in the area.
Operation Dinnet ran from June 10 until July 2.
During this time officers carried out patrols at night wearing plain clothes in areas which were viewed as being at risk of crime, targeting thefts and related crimes.
Inspector Ian McKinnon hopes the trend continues.
He said:Â “This operation is part of an ongoing strategy to raise awareness about these types of crime happening in my area.
“The message hide it, lock it or lose it is a national message and one which we have been pushing for some time now in relation to thefts from cars.
“The lock it or lose it aspect is certainly just as important to bike owners and householders too.
“My message is that locking up your property really is the simplest way to stop this type of crime.
He added:Â “The West End saw a rise in thefts from cars, break-ins to sheds and thefts of bikes over the course of May.
“We responded to this proactively with feet on the ground using an intelligent targeted approach.
“Having officers in the right place at the right time is the best way to tackle this type of crime and my community policing team is full of officers willing to put time and effort into making a difference.
“During the operation, crimes involving theft reduced by 67 per cent compared to the previous month, which is a great result.
“We will never be complacent though and will continue the hard work going forward.”