POLICE investigating postal thefts in Woking have arrested a man in Hackney, London.

Surrey Police executed a warrant following information received in connection with the theft of mail, identity theft and subsequent fraudulent use of bank cards.

A 28-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of theft of mail and is currently in custody at Guildford.

The Woking News & Mail first reported the extent of postal theft and identity fraud earlier this month.

More than 75 residents, mainly in the GU22 7 postcode area of the town, have been targeted with hundreds of thousands of pounds stolen.

Det Con Nicholas Swindells, of Woking CID, arranged a public meeting at St Dunstan's Church hall to inform victims of progress. Nearly 100 people turned up but Royal Mail chiefs failed to attend.

A Surrey Police spokesman said: "We are committed to relentlessly pursuing criminals and this latest cross border action demonstrates its determination to bring those guilty of postal offences in the Woking and Guildford areas to justice."

Temporary Detective Chief Inspector Karen Mizzi said: "I am continuing to ask local residents to report any thefts or suspicious behaviour in their area in relation to this pattern of offending. Any information which can help further this investigation, which is one of our force priorities, can be reported at Surrey Police on 101.”

Members of the public who may wish to report details can call Surrey Police on 101, quoting Operation Arrowroot. Alternatively the independent charity, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.