London, Nov.12 : A study shows that 2.3million of six million offences reported to cops last year were never investigated.

According to The Sun, the study also reveals that many cases are closed in hours, sometimes by civilian workers, without an officer visiting the scene or trying to find the culprit.

In some areas, up to two thirds of break-ins receive no police attention, official figures show.

Of the 97,000 burglaries in London last year, 64,000 were not probed. It was also revealed that cases are often “screened out” by overstretched police because they would take too long and are unlikely to clinch a conviction.

Figures released by 12 English and Scottish forces show 788,000 crimes were screened out last year from a total of 2,029,000.

A study shows that serious crimes like murder or rape are always pursued, but vandalism, robbery, fraud and even violence are often screened out.

Police chiefs claim they have to target resources on more serious crimes or those with clear leads.

Meanwhile, Met Commissioner Sir Ian Blair is under pressure over his handling of the expenses scandal that has engulfed his force.

The Sun told last week how two anti-terror officers were arrested over claims they used police-issue American Express cards to spend tens of thousands on themselves. Up to 70,000 pounds was spent on clothing, shopping and gifts.

The cards should have been used for accommodation and booking flights.  (ANI)