Police are to launch their biggest-ever crackdown on crime in Bradford's city centre over the Christmas period.

The blitz will start on Wednesday and involve uniformed and plain-clothed officers, some who will be drafted in from other divisions.

Chief Inspector Ray Shepherd, of Bradford Central police, said the city will be one of the safest in the country for shoppers over Christmas thanks to the all-out offensive.

The main targets over the festive period include:

professional shoplifters coming to Bradford;

low-level drug dealing;

car crime;

illegal traders;

beggars.

Chief Insp Shepherd said: "The city centre is a safe place to visit because the police continue to target violent crime and burglaries.

"But we will be stepping up the police presence to deter criminals in the build-up to Christmas."

Chief Insp Shepherd said professional shoplifters will be a particular target. "People come from all over the north," he added. "We know who many of these people are and they will be stopped. We are also aware of the prolific shoplifters working in Bradford."

The police are working in partnership with businesses to curb the problem of shoplifting.

Another area of concern is theft from cars, a crime which is on the increase in the city centre.

"I don't want to sound alarmist, but Bradford suffers from a lot of crime driven by heroin addiction," said Chief Insp Shepherd.

Police are also warning drug dealers, beggars and youngsters causing a nuisance that they will also be targeted.

Chief Insp Shepherd added: "We want Bradford to be a place where people can enjoy a safe and welcoming visit."

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