A NUMBER of arrests were made during an all-Island police operation.

Operation Deflect took place from Friday, October 1 to Friday October 8.

Eight people were arrested during the operation for a number of offences ranging from assault, drugs offences, failing to appear at court and non-payment of fines.

Officers from the police's five neighbourhood policing teams were in action during what was described as a "highly visible, pro active intelligence led policing initiative".

Throughout the week there were officers at the Sea Terminal, Douglas, focusing on providing a highly visible police presence together with Customs and Excise.

Drug detection dogs screened both passengers and their luggage arriving in the Island in an effort to disrupt and deter criminal activity.

Regular officers were assisted by members of the Special Constabulary helping to maintain the normal patrol service.

The daily policing activity started at 5.30am and ended at midnight.

The early evening saw officers from the Road Policing Unit combing resources with the neighbourhood policing teams and PSV examiners from the Department of Infrastructure.

In excess of 80 vehicle checks were conducted across the Island. Officers took the opportunity to speak to the drivers of vehicles and issued leaflets with simple crime prevention advice.

A police spokesman said: "This has been the most ambitious Operation Deflect to date. The operation has utilised more staff from across the Island and has tackled more local issues during the week than ever before."

Sergeant Darren Richards, who coordinated the operation, said: "Importantly day to day policing has been unaffected by the increased activity.

"It's success has been due to the flexibility of the neighbourhood policing teams and specialist police departments all working towards the same goal, keeping people safe."