A TOTAL of 43 people have been arrested as part of a police swoop designed to tackle organised crime in Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale.

Police raided 29 homes and seized 12 vehicles as well as cash, drugs and a weapon as part of Operation Fly Trap During the week-long operation a cannabis farm was discovered in Rossendale, in Pendle officers stopped a man with £1,400 of cocaine and in Burnley a cross bow was recovered.

Officers said they were pleased with the results and believed their activity would have prevented criminal activity in some cases and massively disrupted it in others.

Detective Chief Inspector Ian Critchley said: “The activities of organised crime groups feed the habit of those who commit the crimes that impact upon many of us, burglary, robbery, car crime, and make local neighbourhoods feel less safe.

“The aim of Operation Fly Trap was to make the Pennine policing area a very hostile place for those involved in organised crime and I think we have achieved that.

“Offender targeting, roadside checks and the use of ANPR systems resulted in a total of 43 arrests, a number of which I would describe as significant people we want to talk to about very serious crimes.

“We also seized a dozen vehicles, cars which were being used illegally on local roads, which is again good news.

“Furthermore, we took quantities of cocaine, heroin and cannabis off the streets along with a weapon, a crossbow which will now be destroyed.

“All of this will have had an impact, making members of organised crime groups more aware of police activity and making local neighbourhoods safer for residents.

DCI Critchley said despite the success of the operation police still needed help from the public.

He said: “If you see suspicious activity or perhaps have suspicions about a home with a top of the range car but no discernible income, then don’t stand for it, report it.

“You can call the police direct on 0845 125 3545 or if you prefer you can remain anonymous and call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”