Police today launched a blitz to sweep streets clean of burglars, car criminals, drug dealers and troublemakers.

Operation Robust is the largest campaign of its kind in Brighton and Hove.

Chief Inspector Peter Mills issued a stark message to villains who continue to commit crimes: "Look over your shoulder because we are determined to sort you out for the sake of the community."

Police have been drafted in from around the city and specialist units to swamp trouble spots, day and night.

Crime in the city is lower than it has been in years but police are determined to pile on the pressure.

Burglaries have been halved in the past ten years and there is 30 per cent less car crime than two years ago.

Mr Mills said: "We are doing well but there are still hotspots that flare up."

The operation will concentrate on an area in Brighton bounded by The Level, London Road, Lewes Road, the A270, Hanover, Queens Park and the Bates Estate.

Mr Mills said: "We have been analysing this area for some time and our aim is to improve the quality of life, to tackle drug dealing, beggars, street drinking, stolen goods, anti-social behaviour, offensive weapons and car crime."

Police are working with the city council and other agencies to combat graffiti and litter.

Mr Mills said other parts of the city would be policed in the usual way.

Operation Robust includes specialist search teams and traffic and vehicle crime reduction officers.

Neighbourhood Watch volunteers have been put on alert and the Youth Offending Team and shops are assisting.

The operation includes targeting suspects coming into the areas, high-visibility patrols, extra stop searches, passive dog searches for drugs, more drug busts on suspects' addresses, the use of a mobile CCTV camera and leaflet drops on homes and businesses.

In a final message to criminals Mr Mills said: "If you get arrested, I will personally visit you in your cell and say to you 'Don't say we didn't warn you'."

He urged the public to join the campaign by calling in with information on suspects and reporting incidents immediately.

Call Brighton and Hove police on 0845 6070999 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.