Extra police have been drafted into Gainsborough from Lincoln after a two-month crime spree saw 128 homes burgled.
Officers from Lincoln have been temporarily stationed in Gainsborough to bolster patrols.
A number of overt and covert operations are also currently under way to crack down on thieves and handlers after burglaries more than doubled.
Police Inspector Ian Watkins said: "More than 18 people have so far been arrested and charged in connection with the crimewave and more arrests are expected in the next 48 hours.
"These people have been charged with either theft or handling stolen property.
"We have made significant progress and more arrests are expected.
"There have been 128 burglaries since the beginning of April, with the vast majority in Gainsborough.
"This is a significant increase on the same period last year, when there were fewer than 50 burglaries and is a very worrying problem.
"Residents should be assured that we are making every effort to tackle this situation.
"For those who have been burgled it is too late. They have already suffered the upset and distress that burglary brings. But we are hoping for significant and positive results."
Most of the burglaries have been at private homes, with many taking place during the day.
Residents have arrived home to find their possessions and sentimental property raked through.
One Gainsborough resident,who asked not to be named, arrived home to find her back door smashed and property taken.
She said: "Televisions and videos are replaceable, but it is the personal items that are stolen, such as jewellery, which really hurts.
"The thief gets no money for them, yet you can't replace them.
"At the moment you talk to anyone and either they have been burgled, or their next door neighbour or someone they know.
"It is horrible to think someone has invaded your home and it is good that the police are taking action."
Many residents are blaming the crime increase on drug users stealing to fund their habits.
This is a view shared by Insp Watkins, who added: "We are putting considerable effort into tackling drug-related crime.
"The vast majority of thefts and burglaries are occurring to fund drug habits."
However, other crimes have dropped during the same period.
Criminal damage has decreased by 23 per cent, thefts of vehicles have also decreased, but residential burglary is still an emotive issue for home-owners.
Chairman of Gainsborough Crime Prevention Panel John Lawton said residents must be vigilant.
"Because of this recent spate of burglaries people need to be more careful. Homes should be left secure especially at night, with no valuables left in view.
"We should all take the time to keep our watch on our neighbours' premises too, particularly if they are away."