iStockA man has been charged following a spate of house break-ins and thefts across the Lothians and Borders.
The incidents happened in Tranent, Prestonpans, Galashiels, Selkirk, Livingston, Gorebridge and Stow, between September 6 and October 10.
Police said a 26-year-old man has been arrested and charged following an “extensive” investigation.
It added: “The man has been charged in connection with a number of offences, including 13 housebreakings, four attempted housebreakings and five vehicle thefts”.
The 26-year-old is expected to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Tuesday.
The force added that enquiries into the incident are “ongoing”.
Detective inspector Debbie Duncan said: “Crimes of this nature have a serious impact on the victims, causing them to question the safety and security of their own homes, and I would like to commend the work of the officers investigating this crime series.
“I would also like to thank the various local communities for their assistance with our enquiries to date and reassure the public that any reports of criminality will be investigated thoroughly by Police Scotland.”
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