POLICE kick-started a campaign against hardened criminals with a series of raids on houses in the Blackburn area early today.

Five people were arrested and stolen property seized.

As part of Operation Tango, police have been gathering intelligence on well known offenders for several months including known burglars, drug dealers and criminals involved in handling stolen goods.

The five people arrested were being quizzed at Blackburn police station today.

Inspector Bob Eastwood said: "These raids are part of an ongoing operation targeting criminals in Blackburn.

"We want to send out the message that we are totally committed to curtailing the activities of known criminals.

"We are doing this with the support of local people and our aim is to make communities safer places for everyone."

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