BROMLEY police are celebrating a big success after netting 283 criminals in Operation Nicholas, the recent crackdown on street crime.

Last November, the borough was facing a 200 per cent increase in violent street crime and the police's pro-active unit was given government funding to tackle the problem.

The seven-week operation was launched in December and the number of reported incidents fell by 32 per cent.

Uniformed and plainclothes officers focused on robbery hotspots and used live CCTV footage to spot criminals.

They focussed on areas surrounding bus routes, which make up most of the borough.

Of the 283 arrests made, 95 per cent resulted in an official reprimand, caution or court charge.

In addition to the arrests, 480 intelligence reports were made, enabling officers to profile suspected offenders and circulate information.

Incidents included the rapid arrest of a yob who kicked through a window on Bromley High Street and was spotted by an officer in the CCTV centre.

He was arrested before he reached the end of the street and later prosecuted.

Areas such as Shortlands train station were also targeted after information was received from the public.

Sergeant Darren Williams, who led the operation, said: "I'm delighted with the results achieved.

"All of the team had to work very hard over the festive period and their dedication is one of the key factors in this success.

"Another factor is the number of partners we had in bus companies, the British Transport Police and the council."

Inspector Andy Rose, of London crime squad's Operation Seneca, which funded the Bromley initiative, said: "These results are very impressive.

"Bromley is definitely right up there with the best and we have recommended some of their techniques to other boroughs.

"It's important to reassure the public their safety is paramount.

"Tackling the bus routes helps beat crime among the 11 to 18-year-olds who use public transport to get around."