Yahoo News Four arrests made during 'largest crime operation' in UK
Four arrests have been made in plans to disrupt criminality in rural areas of Cumbria.
Police officers worked with other forces bordering Cumbria in Operation Checkpoint, which returned on Saturday, November 16. This is the "largest rural crime operation of its kind" in the UK which "sees several police forces in the North of England working collaboratively to prevent and tackle rural acquisitive crime, wildlife and poaching offences."
About 60 vehicles were proactively stopped as part of the operation in the county, with police carrying out routine checks on anything suspicious. 14 vehicles were searched and two seized by officers.
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Eight people were also subject to the police's stop and search powers. Three people were arrested on suspicion of driving whilst under the influence of drugs and all three were released pending further enquiries.
An 18-year-old man from Attleborough was also arrested on suspicion of burglary following an incident committed elsewhere in the country.
Sergeant Amanda McKirdy, Cumbria Constabulary’s Rural Crime Team, said: “We work closely with our bordering forces with this initiative which sees us work together to tackle rural crime. We are committed to targeting travelling rural criminals and are keen to encourage people to report suspicious activity.
“Rural crime offenders will cross county boundaries to commit their crimes in their attempt to evade detection. By sharing information and taking action, we are actively disrupting criminal activity which in turn makes our rural communities a safer place.
“We will continue to take part in such operations to ensure that offenders are identified and brought to justice.”
Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, said: “Working with neighbouring forces to tackle rural crime is incredibly important to ensure that criminals get far with their stolen goods. Cumbria is predominately rural so protecting our more isolated communities and businesses is a priority – not just for myself and the Constabulary, but also for the public as well.
“Op Checkpoint is a regular operation that we are involved in, alongside other local work to prevent and reduce rural crime. I hope that the public feel reassured by this work to keep them, their families and their homes safe.”
