A POLICE operation targetting suspects wanted over domestic abuse allegations has been deemed a success.

To coincide with the start of the World Cup finals, where domestic violence traditionally rises, officers launched Operation Moorhen to target men and women evading capture. They released images of those wanted for questioning in connection with domestic abuse.

Extra officers, including neighbourhood, response, tactical operations and armed response, were drafted in for a week to help.

Sgt Gary Hennighan said that a number of people had been arrested and some had been charged. Officers managed to arrest seven of the ten people wanted over domestic violence offences in Burnley.

Sgt Hennighan said: “The operation has gone very well and we have brought charges against a few people. The main thing with domestic violence is the safeguarding of victims. We just wanted to get these people in and deal with them, whatever the outcome.

“We were just concerned with the start of the World Cup - where there is traditionally a rise in instances of domestic violence - and wanted to be proactive in getting these people in. I would urge anyone who is still wanted to hand themselves in and face the music, whatever that might be. It will look worse in court if we have had to use time and resources locating you.”