A police scheme used to tackle metal thefts in Gwent is now to be rolled out across the rest of the country as part of a wider crackdown on thieves, after metal thefts have become increasingly common as a direct result of the rising value of scrap metal.

The 16-month operation, which began in April 2011, saw Gwent Police stopping more than 21,000 vehicles to check for evidence of metal theft offences. Approximately 70 vanloads of scrap were recovered, with nearly 900 people being arrested in connection with the offences. 1,471 vehicles were also seized and 2 scrap yards were closed down.

The crackdown also enabled two men to be convicted for ‘failing to be registered, or failing to keep records’ under the Scrap Metal Act 1964., which police say was the first successful conviction of its kind in the UK.

Gwent Police worked in conjunction with a number of other organisations and agencies, including the British Transport Police, the Environment Agency and the Department of Work and Pensions.

Chief Inspector Glyn Fernquest, who led the operation, said: “The Force is making real progress in tackling this criminality and the fact that other forces are now adopting methods we have used to tackle metal thieves is testament to the skill and determination of our officers and our partner agencies.

"As well as taking action against illegal activity, we have gathered a large amount of intelligence that will help us target people associated with metal thefts in Gwent.

"This operation demonstrates what can be achieved when partner agencies come together and the results send out a strong message to criminals."

Further information on the best practice can be found on the Gwent Police website.