A fearless woman has detained a would-be burglar in her home.

The 19-year-old woke to hear movement in her home just before midnight.

She heard her dog growl and went to investigate, only to be confronted by a female intruder.

The victim attempted to call police, but as she did so the woman tried to flee by smashing a window at the front of the house.

That failed, so she made a run for the back door.

The 19-year-old resident grabbed her around the legs and a scuffle ensued.

The burglar freed herself and ran, but was immediately arrested by arriving police.

The 43-year-old Footscray woman is in police custody.

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