BASILDON'S top police officer has pledged to target the area's most prolific offenders as part of a new initiative.

Basildon divisional commander, Chief Inspector Dan McHugh, says: "Using information we have gathered, we will be working with our local partners including Safer Basildon using a variety of tactics to deter and disrupt violent behaviour in our community and ensure criminals are brought to justice.

"We will be conducting high visibility patrols across Basildon, particularly in the places considered to be crime hotspots and targeting those we know to be violent offenders."

The force has launched Operation Omega, or the 'times up on violence' campaign, which is officers' dedicated response plan to reducing violence in the Basildon.

Officers say anyone with any information at all which could help with the operation should get in contact with police. You can report information online at essex.police.uk, call 101 or tell an officer in person whilst they're out on patrol.

Alternatively, make a completely anonymous report to independent charity Crimestoppers.