A crackdown targeting offenders downloading, taking and distributing indecent images of children online will be extended by police for another six months.

In November 2016, using an intelligence-led approach, a dedicated team of specialist officers at Esses Police have targeted those involved in the downloading taking and distribution of indecent images of children.

The team, working alongside and in support of force’s existing specialist Police Online Investigation Team (POLIT) and Child Abuse Investigation Teams (CAIT), executed 44 warrants and arrested 43 people.

A total of 29 suspected offenders have now been charged and a further 11 have been sentenced.

Through the operation other offences such as voyeurism, possession of controlled substances and possession of ammunition have been discovered. In total, 46 children have been safeguarded throughout the crackdown.

Police have announced additional officers will continue their crackdown on these offenders until March 2018.

Chief Inspector Jon Burgess, of Essex Police’s Crime and Public Protection Command, said: “It’s important to remember that this team of specialist officers are an additional resource, working in support of our existing POLIT and CAIT teams, to bring even more offenders of this heinous crime to justice.

“Nothing is more important than protecting our children, and every child in every indecent image has been abused and exploited.”

Sargent Ashley Howard, who leads the team of extra officers, said: “The offenders we have brought to justice so far have seen their lives changed forever.

“They have been placed on the Sex Offenders Register for several years - affecting their future ability to gain employment - they have been made the subject of Sexual Harm Prevention Orders (SHPO) and ordered to carry out unpaid work and rehabilitation programmes.

“Our knock on the door of suspected offenders has also changed their family lives beyond recognition.

“Our message has and always will be clear – do not download or view indecent images of children. It is a crime and we will continue to target those who participate in the abuse of children by viewing this imagery.”

The Lucy Faithfull Foundation charity offers support to adults concerned about their sexual thoughts and behaviour towards children.

The charity runs Stop it Now! – a child sexual abuse prevention campaign and helpline.

Visit www.stopitnow.org.uk.