Drug-dealers and users were targeted on Thursday as police went into action to halt a rising crime wave.

Around 50 officers including detectives, Task Force operational support units and other officers from the traffic and mounted sections took part in Operation Drub.

It was launched because of the recent increase in burglaries and the increased availability of crack cocaine and heroin on the streets of Keighley.

The team was briefed at a secret location by the head of Keighley's drug squad Det Sgt Raham Khan before raids were carried out at various addresses. Homes raided were in the Braithwaite, Lawkholme, Ingrow, and Highfield areas of Keighley.

Other addresses in Cullingworth, Denholme and Burley-in-Wharfedale were also visited.

The targets were known drug dealers, receivers of stolen goods, and burglars .

As the Keighley News went to press three men had been arrested in connection with drugs offences. A quantity of drugs had been recovered. More arrests were expected later in the day.

A recent increase in burglaries and the rising availability of crack cocaine and heroin on the streets of Keighley forced the police to act.

Yesterday afternoon observation points were due to be set up at various locations around Keighley and suspect vehicles were to be stopped and searched.

Mounted police and traffic vehicles were also patrolling streets in the town.

Keighley police Inspector Mick Hop-wood says over recent weeks the Keighley division has suffered an increase in crime which is being linked directly to the availability of and dealing in drugs.

"The residential and business communities of Keighley suffer the consequences of drug abuse in terms of crime and anti-social behaviour," he says. "This week's operation is part of the ongoing efforts by Keighley police to combat the evil of drugs misuse. Drug dealing will not be tolerated and we will continue with similar action in the future."

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