Police in Warminster joined forces with Wiltshire Council officers to crack down on illegal waste carrying and vehicle offences during Rural Crime Action Week.
The Warminster Journal accompanied the team on patrol to see the checks taking place across the local area. Business vehicles suspected of transporting waste were stopped to ensure they had the correct government-issued Waste Carrier Licence. Officers also carried out checks for valid insurance, tax and MOT.
During the operation, 19 vehicles were stopped. One driver was found not to be carrying the required waste licence, while other checks uncovered an untaxed vehicle, an expired licence, a driver without a licence, and another using the wrong number plate.
The operation formed part of Rural Crime Action Week, which brings together local agencies to tackle offences that affect countryside communities.
Sergeant Lyndsey Smith said, “This was a good opportunity to work with Wiltshire Council and my local Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) to get out there, work together and target waste carriers.
“It sends a message that by working together, we can get good results.”
By targeting waste carriers, the police and council hope to prevent illegal waste dumping (fly-tipping), protect the environment, and ensure businesses handle waste properly and within the law.
Cllr Martin Smith, Cabinet Member for Highways, Streetscene and Flooding, said, “This is a strong example of effective partnership working between Wiltshire Council and Wiltshire Police, and it’s not just about stopping people without waste carrier licences – it also helps us to raise awareness.
“I’d like to thank the police for their continued support in helping us tackle environmental crime. These operations are proving valuable, and we plan to carry out more across the county.”
