A WINTER crackdown targeting persistent burglars in east Durham is being hailed as a success.

Police are delighted with the six-week Operation Darc, aimed at catching offenders and giving homeowners crime prevention advice.

In November, reported burglaries fell by more than 26 per cent, compared with the same period last year.

Officers detected 31 per cent of burglaries, and 62 arrests were made.

Security lighting and locks were fitted to 170 homes to make life more difficult for criminals.

Detective Chief Inspector Denis Pygall, Easington division crime manager, warned criminals that even though Operation Darc was over, police would still be taking tough action.

Operation Bull's-Eye would target burglars, drug dealers, robbers and thieves in the run-up to Christmas.

Det Chief Insp Pygall said: "This year's operation has proved even more successful than last year's, due largely to the positive policing approach by local officers, supported by the local community and partnerships.

"Now Operation Darc is over, criminals needn't think our guard is down.

"Operation Bull's-Eye is up and running, and is a top priority. Our aim is to seriously disrupt the activities of drugs suppliers and, to date, in the Easington district area, 26 arrests have been made for supply or possession of controlled drugs.

"This is a force-wide operation, through which we are tackling crime and disorder problems in east Durham."

Steve Arkley, head of Easington District Council's community safety team, praised the partners involved in Operation Darc, including the Homesafe charity.

He said: "We hope to sustain the success, and continue to work together to make the district a safer place to live and work."