Special arrest squads were targeting criminals' homes today as part of a large-scale police offensive in the north of Bradford.

The force's two-day Ring of Steel campaign aims to blitz large sections of the city, taking known offenders off the streets and reassuring law-abiding residents.

The division's biggest operation of the year is aimed at clamping down on people known to be involved in robberies, burglaries and vehicle crime.

Working under West Yorkshire Police's Target Initiative, uniformed patrols were linking with undercover officers and agencies such as the Council's Park Rangers and Community Support officers.

Insp Adrian Lyles, co-ordinator for the Bradford North division, said: "People who live in or travel through the division will not be able to go very far today or tomorrow without seeing our officers and representatives of partner agencies in action as part of a huge range of activities.

"It will remind people that all areas of criminality, from not licensing your car right through to robbery and burglary are being dealt with positively throughout the year."

He added: "The message is being hammered home to criminals that any offences will be challenged and dealt with."

Insp Lyles said there would be extra police patrols in crime hotspots while Park Rangers helped to tackle nuisance drivers and off-road motorcyclists.

Residents will be given crime prevention advice and offered the chance to have property security-marked.

Bradford Council Accident Prevention officers were also deploying road checks and giving motorists advice on the use of seatbelts.

Insp Lyles added: "Make no mistake, officers put a great deal of effort into targeting all types of crime every day of the year. This latest operation is all about joining forces with other agencies in a massive concerted effort to tackle crime in the area and provide reassurance to the public."