A MAJOR crackdown has been launched today on criminals and drug dealers coming into East Lancashire.

Police will be placing ‘a ring of steel’ around the area as part of a cross-border operation.

Officers will be stopping vehicles on the main routes into the area from Greater Manchester and Merseyside.

Detectives from a number of departments across Blackburn with Darwen, Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley will use various tactics to disrupt crime such as drug supply, theft and the disposal of stolen property.

The lockdown, which will run until the end of July, will also focus on reducing road casualties.

Officers will be on the lookout for motorists committing traffic offences, such as speeding, using mobile phones while driving and having no tax or insurance.

Chief Inspector Damian Darcy said: “This operation is all about tackling the issues which are of greatest concern to the public and we will be focusing our resources on routes known to be used by criminals or areas where we know crime has occurred.

“Motorists can be reassured that if they come to Eastern Division to go about their legitimate business they will be welcomed.

"However, we know there are criminals who live outside Lancashire, who are prepared to travel into the county to commit crime.

"My message to them is simple – if you come to East Lancashire to commit offences you will be dealt with robustly.”

Anyone with information or concerns about crime can contact police on 0845 125 3545 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.