In all 13 suspects belonging to three separate gangs were charged with complicity in as many as 81 cases of robbery and burglary that were uncovered by investigators following their recent arrest. Of this number only 33 cases were based on formal complaints registered by victims at various police stations in the governorate an official police source said.

The cases involved a mix of break-ins and auto thefts the source stated adding that the gang targeted homes and shops as well as cars and motor engines. Some members of the gang indulged in arson to erase evidence of their crimes the official noted.

The arrests follow a series of complaints filed by people who were victims of the gang's criminal activities. In all of these cases the victims said they had been targeted by unknown persons.

Acting on the complaints the Royal Oman Police represented by various police stations in Al Batinah North Governorate Police Command launched a coordinated investigation coupled with a manhunt for the culprits. All 13 members belonging to three gangs were eventually rounded up. They confessed to their role in as many as 81 cases including some that were not previously reported to the authorities by the victims themselves.

The official thanked the citizens and residents who helped provide crucial information that led to the rounding up of the criminal gangs. The criminals were handed over to the Public Prosecution for further investigations pending their trial.

In a statement the Royal Oman Police (ROP) urged citizens and residents to immediately alert the authorities if they are the target of any crime. With the registration of a formal complaint at the nearest police station steps can be taken to initiate a full investigation into the case the statement said. Members of the general public can report any suspicious activity by calling either the emergency free number 9999 or can approach the nearest police station.

The statement also cautioned the public to keep a safe distance from any active crime scene not only in the interest of their safety but also to preserve the crime scene for evidence gathering by the competent forensic team of the ROP.

Furthermore the statement advised shop-owners against leaving large amounts of cash in their establishments overnight. Motorists should avoid leaving their vehicles unattended while the engine is running. Besides they should take care not to leave their wallets phones and other valuables in their vehicles or other valuable in their parked vehicles the police added.