Officers from the Shirley, Freemantle and Coxford neighbourhood policing team were carrying out evening patrols in Shirley after a spate of recent burglaries across Southampton.
While no offences were detected during the patrols, an officer spotted a man believed to be linked to a burglary earlier in the week as the shift was coming to an end.
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The suspect attempted to flee on foot but was quickly caught following a short chase through the area.
He was arrested at the scene and taken into custody for questioning.
A spokesperson for the police team involved added: “After a very brief foot chase (not my best idea after a few too many Quality Streets over Christmas) the male was arrested and off to custody.”
Residents are being encouraged to remain vigilant, report suspicious behaviour.