MORE than 100 law-breakers have been caught on film in Bournemouth during the past year by mobile CCTV cameras.

Last spring the council invested £46,000 in four cameras which have been placed in 29 different locations across the borough.

Offences detected included assault, kerb-crawling, public order offences, burglary and theft, leading to 124 arrests.

Cllr David Smith, cabinet member for planning and environment, said: “The mobile cameras have proven to be a huge success and extremely effective since they were introduced last April.

“They have enabled the council to tackle anti-social behaviour hotspots where there currently isn’t any coverage from the town’s fixed CCTV cameras.

“This is a cost-effective solution for both the council and the police to improve community safety throughout the borough.”

Sgt Steve Lyne from Dorset police said: “The mobile cameras have been a great tool in reducing crime and anti-social behaviour, making Bournemouth safer.

“They have allowed officers to respond to issues as they arise and the feedback from local communities has been excellent.”

The council will soon be investing in a wireless hub in Moordown to help extend the range of the wireless cameras so they can be used more effectively in West Howe, Kinson and Muscliffe.

Areas where they have been installed include the West Cliff, Westbourne, West Howe, Kinson, Redhill, Charminster, Boscombe and Springbourne. The cameras have also been used at events including Bournemouth Air Festival. They can be positioned in any public space and are linked to the town’s central CCTV control room at Bournemouth police station, Madeira Road.