POLICE have launched a high profile operation in an attempt to reduce the number of robberies at post offices and shops.

The crackdown in Blackburn, Darwen and Ribble Valley is in response to a series of robberies leading up to the New Year.

Security was stepped up at post offices and shops over the holiday weekend and police officers will maintain a high-visibility presence.

Sergeant Joanne Lightbown, of Blackburn police, said: "Over the holiday period within the Blackburn area there has been an upsurge in robbery, which has caused concern to the police and the local community.

"These serious crimes are unacceptable."

She said there was often a rise in robberies at this time of year as criminals took advantage of the fact shopkeepers often had more cash than usual on their premises.

But she said such crimes would not be tolerated.

"Blackburn police, in partnership with other law enforcement agencies, such as security companies, have been providing high visibility policing at Post Offices and other retail outlets," she said.

"Part of this operation has included stepping up security within these premises.

"The police are confident that these measures will have a significant effect and will help to detect offenders responsible for committing these types of crime."

The Faz and Bros general store in Wensley Road, Blackburn, was targeted by an axe-wielding robber on Monday last week.

Five days earlier, post office worker Gulam Ahmed was injured in a raid on the Moss Bridge sub-post office in Blackburn Road, Darwen.

And earlier in December there was a robbery at the Co-op Late Shop in Blackburn Road, Hollins Grove, Darwen.

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