A CRIME crackdown is being launched by police in one of Suffolk's biggest trouble spots.The police are set to employ extra resources in south east Ipswich, including the Greenwich and Gainsborough estates, to target the young criminals who have been putting residents in fear.

By Matt Eley

A CRIME crackdown is being launched by police in one of Suffolk's biggest trouble spots.

The police are set to employ extra resources in south east Ipswich, including the Greenwich and Gainsborough estates, to target the young criminals who have been putting residents in fear.

Operation Martley is being launched this month after an increase in reported crime in the area since September.

Incidents such as car thefts, criminal damage and shed burglaries have all been on the up in the area in the last few months.

Last week The Evening Star reported that young vandals had repeatedly attacked The Baptist Church in Nansen Road meaning thousands of pounds had to be spent on securing the building.

In a separate incident soldier's widow Cathie > Bankier >, of Raeburn Road, had her window and door smashed by yobs on Remembrance Sunday.

Inspector Andy Solomon, of Ipswich police, said forces will be on the lookout for trouble-makers in those areas.

He said: "We are aware of the situation and we are looking to put in measures to tackle these problems.

The areas where there have been particular problems include Bader Close, Lindbergh Road, Queen's Way shops, Nacton Road and Gainsborough Lane.

He added that much of the crime was being committed by young offenders, aged between 14 and 18.

In a bid to prevent and catch the offenders more police, including special officers, will be on patrol in the area and the force helicopter will be used to supplement the extra officers.

Insp Solomon said: "The majority of people who live in the area are law abiding and want something done about the problem.

"We are looking to put more specials on patrol in the evenings and to target our patrol officers to focus on specific crime problem areas."

He added: "We are asking the public to fight with us and not be frightened or feel intimidated by these people."

Anyone with information about crimes being committed in south east Ipswich are asked to contact Ipswich police on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.