Yobs who terrorise train passengers appear to have got the message that their behaviour simply won't be tolerated, police have claimed.

Undercover operations by British Transport Police this time last year yielded firearms, drugs and dozens of arrests for disorder.

But as the operations continue the fruits of police officers' labour are lessening.

Police believe this is because the message is finally hitting home with those troublemakers who make passengers' lives a misery.

Operation Fortune, which ran over the weekend of December 17 to 19, followed hot on the heels of a joint BTP and Essex Police initiative at the beginning of November.

The three-night blitz saw around 30 officers working in uniform and in plain clothes on trains and at stations in and around Southend.

Sgt Simon Taylor, of Southend British Transport Police, said: "With each operation the incidents are getting fewer.

"Surely this means the message that unruly behaviour on the trains simply won't be tolerated."

The series of operations also means the trains are now a much safer place. Hauls seized by police have included imitation firearms, drugs and lethal knives.

In the latest operation - Operation Fortune - a lock knife and some cannabis were seized.

Some 21 instant warnings were also given, 17 people were ejected from trains and stations and two stop checks made.

Sgt Taylor added: "People have a right to travel safely on trains. This initiative was our way or making them aware the efforts are being made to look after their welfare."

The operation was run to curb growing late night trouble in the rail network where as many as 200 partygoers can be on the last train out of Southend on a Friday or Saturday night.

Many cause criminal damage or are drunken and abusive to other passengers.

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