SOUTH Yorkshire Police have been out in force across the county to tackle metal theft.
The activity was carried out over four days, from December 3-6, and was linked to the latest national day of action enforcing the new legislation around the illegal trade of scrap metal.
Across the county officers were stopping vehicles carrying metal and checking that they had a mobile collectors licence.
They visited scrap metal dealers to check they had a site licence, offer them advice and ensure awareness and compliance with the new rules.
One person was arrested on suspicion of the theft of power tools, one vehicle was found with red diesel and 63 were stopped in total.
Throughout the operation police officers worked in partnership with authorities including Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC), Environment Agency, SmartWater and industry partners from BT, Northern Power and Network Rail.
Chief Inspector Andy Kent, lead for metal theft, said: "The county-wide operation has been successful in helping to reduce this type of crime and it has achieved its aim to raise awareness of the new legislation.
"Metal theft is not a victimless crime, it can affect the whole community. That's why it's so important for police and partner organisations to work together with local communities, businesses and legitimate scrap dealers to tackle this type of crime."
Anyone with information regarding metal theft or suspicious activity in your area please contact South Yorkshire Police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
