MORE than 100 people have now been arrested in east Suffolk as part of the ongoing Operation Endurance campaign, it was revealed today.The crackdown is part of an offensive against the county's career criminals in a bid to take them off the streets and slash crime rates.

MORE than 100 people have now been arrested in east Suffolk as part of the ongoing Operation Endurance campaign, it was revealed today.

The crackdown is part of an offensive against the county's career criminals in a bid to take them off the streets and slash crime rates.

It follows Home Office research that suggests just ten per cent of offenders commit half of all serious crime.

Detective inspector Phil Aves said: "Arresting over 100 local persistent offenders in the first six months shows our commitment to tackle those who us the most problems.

"Operation endurance is exactly the type of campaign the government is seeking to introduce countrywide to tackle identified prolific and persistent offenders.

"We've made an excellent start here in Suffolk and we intend to continue catching those that blight our communities."

A list of persistent offenders has been drawn up to target those causing most misery to residents.

Those on the list are closely monitored by police and given a "premium service" through the courts.

A number have already been now been prosecuted for offences including theft, driving while disqualified and causing criminal damage.

Mr Aves added: "My thanks go to the officers who have participated in making Operation Endurance a resounding success."