TACKLING RURAL CRIME

An operation to tackle rural crime resulted in the seizure of a 4×4 vehicle and warnings being issued to off road bikers recently.

South Wales Police teamed up with South Wales Fire and Rescue Service and other partners to target areas across Mid Glamorgan, with a focus on known hotspots in places such as Rhondda and Maesteg.
Officers on the ground were supported by drones in the air and mobile CCTV units to send a strong message to those who commit crimes such as illegal off road biking, deliberate grass fires and fly tipping.
One 4 x 4 vehicle was seized for having no insurance, and two off road bikers were issued with Section 59 warnings, meaning further offences could result in their bikes being seized.

Inspector Michael Rudall, said: “We worked closely with fire service colleagues and partner agencies such as Natural Resources Wales to send a strong message to those who commit crimes which blight our beautiful countryside and landscapes and cause a nuisance for nearby residents.
“Complaints to our control room about off road bikes were low over that weekend and I’m sure our presence in known areas deterred many from venturing out.
“Our commitment to tackling these types of crime will continue throughout the Summer months.”

Pictured: Two off road bikers caught riding illegally being issued with Section 59 notices..