Forty-three people have been arrested after police cracked down on gangs in Workington.

Operation Rodeo was set up by Cumbria police to target an increase of crime in the area. 

A number of individuals, largely teenagers, are believed to be responsible for the increase in disorder. 

These individuals are believed to have formed two rival gangs - known locally as Mandem and Moorclose. 

Most of the arrests are in relation to violence or weapons offences and include: 

  • A 16 year old male from Workington, who is currently serving an 18-month sentence for affray, witness intimidation, public order offence, and possessing a weapon (an electrical incapacitation device)
  • Scott Hannon, 18, of Workington is currently serving a seven-month sentence for public order offences
  • A 17-year-old male from Workington is currently serving a four-month sentence for damage, assault, and theft
  • Six people are on remand
  • 27 have been charged
  • One has been cautioned
  • 14 are on police bail pending further enquiries
  • No further action is being taken against three people

During the course of the operation, officers have seized:

  • Three machetes
  • Baseball bats 
  • Golf clubs 
  • Cricket bats 
  • An axe 
  • A knuckle duster 

Detective Inspector Dan St Quintin said: "The criminality our communities have experienced is totally unacceptable and police have nipped this in the bud.

"I would like to take this opportunity to reassure the public that we have a team of dedicated detectives and uniform officers are working full time to detect and prosecute anyone found committing criminal behaviour, and prevent and deter any further activity from taking place.

"We have already made a significant amount of arrests, and we are working hard to bring anyone involved in violence or disorder to justice – particular the leading members of these ‘gangs’.

"However, there are still a number of lines of enquiry we are pursuing and we need information from local people to help us in our investigation.

"All reports will be treated sensitively and professionally."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.