MOTOR vehicle crime has increased in the Cowdenbeath-Lochgelly area over recent months and moves are being taken to head this situation off.

Community Police Inspector Gavin Cameron told Cowdenbeath Area Committee that acquisitive crime, including shoplifting and motor vehicle crime, had increased over the reporting period.

Inspector Cameron said: "Our shoplifting initiative, under the Operation Principle banner, continues to run with all recidivist offenders being managed robustly.

"This approach has led to an increase in detection rates and a reduction in the number of shoplifting offences locally in comparison to other parts of Fife.

"A number of prolific offenders have received custodial sentences as a result of the initiative. The number of housebreakings in the area has increased slightly since last year, however, detection is also up and HBs are now reducing. This is an area we will continue to focus on."