THE FIGHT against an epidemic of livestock slaughters and thefts continued as three neighbouring police forces took part in a joint operation.
Officers from Warwickshire Police, Northamptonshire Police and Leicestershire Police descended on the A5 corridor overnight on Friday August 16 to disrupt and deter criminals from illegally butchering or stealing sheep from rural areas.
More than 285 police checks were carried out as a result of the tri-force operation, while officers also responded to reports of suspicious people or vehicles, and thefts in progress.
Officers stopped suspected stolen vehicles including plant vehicles which should not be out overnight, agricultural vehicles, vehicles towing a trailer, vehicles with a Warwickshire Police ‘Please Stop Me Sticker’, and 4x4s.
Warwickshire Police Inspector Allison Wiggin said: “These offences have a significant impact on the farming and rural community and we hope this operation helps to reassure our communities around the action we are continuing to take to reduce rural crime.
“In addition to this positive police activity, officers and staff used the opportunity to engage with the public to discuss any concerns and provide information and crime prevention advice.”
Northamptonshire Police Neighbourhood Sergeant Sam Dobbs said: “The joint operation was a great example of neighbouring forces working together to share a common message – that rural crime will not be tolerated in our counties.
“We were able to target potentially illegal activity and make sure any plant or agricultural equipment found on the move was being transported legitimately by those who own or have a right to use it.
“Our Neighbourhood Policing and Rural Crime teams, CID and intelligence colleagues are closely linking in with their counterparts in Warwickshire and Leicestershire to make sure we are taking every opportunity to bring those responsible for these crimes to justice.”
Further joint rural crime operations are set to be arranged with neighbouring forces in the future.
A Hampshire man arrested in connection with livestock offences remains released under investigation. A Coventry man arrested on suspicion of theft and criminal damage remains on police bail pending further enquiries.
