A WEEK-long crackdown on criminals has got off to a spectacular start with one raid uncovering 400,000 cigarettes.

Operation Tornado is targeting known offenders with each police district - Middlesbrough, Redcar, Stockton and Hartlepool - compiling a list of 13 men and women suspected of various offences, ranging from drug-dealing and organised crime to theft and burglary.

And the early morning raids, which were carried out across the force area, resulted in the ace of spades being arrested. A 33-year-old alleged burglar from Thornaby's Grange Road.

Five other people on the list, including the 'king of spades' were arrested in the Stockton area.

And officers discovered 400,000 cigarettes, 60 prams, four lawn mowers, a boiler and a number of electrical power tools at an address in Bowesfield Lane, Stockton.

With more almost 50 operations taking place across the week, the force is determined to get across the message to criminals that there is nowhere to hide.

As well as protecting the public, the drive is also intended to enhance confidence in the police and criminal justice system.

Assistant Chief Constable Sean White said: "Operation Tornado is about mobilising the resources of the force to deal with the issues that people have told us they have concerns about. Throughout the course of the week, we will also be tracking down people who are wanted on warrant for offences, and making sure they appear at court."

In Hartlepool, officers made two arrests, including the 'queen of hearts' with their early morning raids.

Inspector Andrew Bright, who was leading a scrap metal and licensing operation in Redcar, was pleased with the outcome of the first day of the event, with the 'king, eight and three of clubs' being arrested He said: "It is really important that we carryout these high visibility operations to remind the criminals that we are looking for them. We are cracking down on all known offenders and will continue to do so throughout the week."

This morning officers will be out across the force area running further operations, including targeting retail crime in Stockton and underage drinking.

Anyone with information about crime should call Cleveland Police on 01642-326326 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.