A POLICE clampdown on drug dealers and burglars has snared more than 40 suspected criminals.

The huge haul followed a month-long police operation - codenamed Hurling - in the Shakerley and Tyldesley areas, after police chiefs, had identifed a surge in burglaries.

Undercover cops and uniformed officers were joined by colleagues from the motorcycle division and mounted unit as part of the intensive operation.

Magistrates' warrants were issued allowing officers to search more than 15 houses in the area, including properties on Devon Road and Rutland Road, Shakerley.

Now police bosses have confirmed that 41 people were arrested on suspicion of a wide range of offences, from supplying drugs to handling stolen property.

Sgt Mark Bradley (pictured), from Leigh crime management unit, said: "This is one of a number of recent successful policing operations in the Leigh police area.

"Information from the public has been acted on and has resulted in persons being taken to court."

Leigh's chief inspector Alex Woolley revealed the special operation followed tip-offs from members of the public and informants, as well as detailed analysis of crime figures.

And he warned Leigh criminals that the latest police on-slaught would continue as part of a prolonged clampdown.

He added: "This was a successful operation but this police action will not stop there. The problem will never go away entirely but we will continue to work to make Leigh safer."