Burglaries fell nationally by 23% towards the end of last year, bucking the trend for previous months.
In the South East, 40% fewer were reported in December than October.
The Winter Phase of Operation Thor set out to prevent burglaries which traditionally increase during months with reduced daylight hours.
That's according to provisional figures from An Garda Síochana.
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The targeted effort tackled organised crime gangs resulting in 155 criminal convictions.
The key to the plan is prevention and Gardaí are advising people to Lock Up and Light Up as most burglaries occur between 5 and 11 pm in winter months - while over half of burglaries take place through the front or back door.
