The impromptu crime prevention operation was conducted on Wednesday afternoon after residents made complaints about the amount of delinquent behaviour occurring on a daily basis.

In recent months, police have dealt with complaints of property crime, violence and hooning in the area and conducted the surprise sting in an effort to send a positive message to the public.

Fourteen police from the Launceston Uniform Division and Northern Road and Public Order Services took part in the multi-hour ‘‘saturation’’ of the area.

Along with one arrest, three people were cautioned for riding bikes without helmets and four unroadworthy vehicles were found.

Acting inspector Dean McMahon said the alleged burglar was sprung while allegedly trying to force his way into a home.

Acting inspector McMahon said criminal behaviour would not be tolerated and police had a duty of care to protect the public at all times of day.

‘‘Tasmania Police wanted to make a statement that we do care and we’re willing to work with the community on these types of issues,’’ he said.

The swoop took place after a number of complaints about crime in the area were made to Windermere  MLC Ivan Dean, a former Northern district police commander.

Police have encouraged victims of crime to make statements about the incidents.

A number of offences have gone unpunished in recent months because residents have been unwilling to work with police to resolve the matter, Acting inspector McMahon said.