CONMEN targeting elderly and vulnerable people is a major concern in Hampshire, with more than 212 burglaries being reported in the area last year.
While these figures are lower than in some neighbouring counties, Hampshire Police has decided to crack down on the problem.
Police say that critical to the operation's success is the creation of a distraction burglary focus desk. This will be staffed by Dc Bob Nicholas who said: "Distraction burglars who offend in Hampshire will also be committing crimes elsewhere and by working with other forces we have a much better chance of catching them."
Dc Nicholas also stressed that the affect of a distraction burglary on an elderly victim cannot be overestimated. "The impact of this crime on the quality of their life can be devastating. That is why it is vital that we adopt a concerted and co-ordinated approach to tackling this type of offence."