The number of shootings in the Bradford district has plunged by a third as a police operation to tackle guns and drugs crime begins to bite.

Operation Sabredale was set up last summer to focus specifically on such offences and has seen well in excess of 100 arrests, and the seizure of weapons, at least £1.3 million of drugs, and more than 100 high- performance and luxury cars. It is ongoing.

The latest figures have revealed there were 23 incidents in which firearms were discharged in the Bradford district in the year up to April 30 – down by 33 per cent.

Chief Inspector Dan Greenwood, who is in charge of crime and operations for the Bradford district and leads Operation Sabredale, said the reduction in firearms discharges was pleasing and testament to the Operation Sabredale team and police partners.

“In our three operations to date, we have removed numerous weapons and illegal substances from the streets, as well as vehicles, cash and other items. We have also seen a significant number of convictions,” said Ch Insp Greenwood.

He said: “The communities of Bradford can see our work is having a positive effect and are more confident about reporting those responsible for these offences.

"While the latest figures are good news for the district, our operations against the minority who involve themselves in such crime will continue, and by working with our partners and the public we can make a real difference.”

In a two-week blitz, in February, Operation Sabredale officers seized 12 imitation guns, two stun guns and CS canisters, as well as suspected drugs to a value of £1.3million, almost £300,000 in cash, and more than 130 cars, including Audis and other high-performance models, passed between criminal gangs.

In April, nine people were arrested for conspiracy to supply class A drugs.

A double-barrelled shotgun, a single-barrelled gun, a handgun and an automatic weapon were seized from the loft of a property in St Stephens Road, West Bowling.

A quantity of ammunition, a military-style flash bang, a respirator and a canister were also uncovered.

Last year the combined seizure of more than £1.8 million-worth of suspected drugs was made from Acton House in Little Germany, and Lessarna Court in Bowling Back Lane.

Three firearms and 90 rounds of ammunition were seized during the first phase of Operation Sabredale last July.

Chief Insp Greenwood urged anyone with information about such crimes to contact police via 101, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.