MORE than 150 officers swooped on suspected heroin and crack cocaine dealers today in one of Blackburn's biggest drugs operations.

Nine people were arrested as officers executed warrants at 14 addresses mainly in the Audley area of Blackburn.

They were due to be quizzed by detectives today.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Smith, who led the raids, said a substantial amount of heroin and crack cocaine was seized from the various addresses.

The dawn raids were part of Lancashire Police's Safer Streets initiative, a government-funded scheme to tackle crime on the streets.

DCI Smith said: "This has been an intelligence-led operation thanks to a great deal of support from the local community and many of our partner organisations.

"We have asked the public to work with us.

"We have canvassed their opinions and listened to the voice of the community.

"The public have sent us a very clear message that they do not want people who illegally deal drugs to live among them."

The operation, which included officers from across Lancashire's six divisions, began at 6am today.

More than 20 personnel carriers and other police vehicles left Ewood Park and travelled into Blackburn.

Specialist officers included search teams and dog handlers with drug detection sniffer dogs.

Today's operation in Blackburn follows months of evidence gathering on alleged drug dealing in the town.

DCI Smith said: "The majority of people who live in the areas targeted today are decent people.

"They tell us time and again they do not welcome the disruptive criminal minority in their midst.

"We have spent a long time building up a picture of activity in the area.

"Mounting raids on this scale can be very disruptive and we are very grateful to local residents for their tolerance and support. Today demonstrates our commitment to work together with everyone affected by drug use and abuse in their society.

"Today's operation marks the start of a sustained attack upon crime and the causes of crime in the area.

"We expect a marked reduction in crime in the immediate aftermath.

"But, importantly, we are working hard with our partners to ensure this reduction is sustained."