Police launch crackdown on rural crime in East Lancashire (From Lancashire Telegraph)
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Police launch crackdown on rural crime in East Lancashire
1:00pm Wednesday 3rd October 2012 in News
Asst Chief Constable Mark Bates
AN OPERATION to crackdown on rural crime is under way in East Lancashire.
Lancashire Constabulary are carrying out extra patrols, targeting suspected offenders; making visits to farms and rural businesses to offer crime prevention advice; and hosting community meetings.
The operation, codenamed Firecrest II, will also see roadside checks taking place throughout the week to identify travelling criminals and to deter the theft of scrap metal, livestock and plant equipment.
Assistant Chief Constable Mark Bates from Lancashire Police said: “Fortunately rural crime is quite low in Lancashire but whilst the number of offences is small, the value of items stolen can be significant.
“The impact of crime can also be severe, particularly amongst communities who already feel isolated like rural communities, which is why we are determined to take action.
“The most common type of offences in our rural communities include fuel, scrap metal and vehicle or plant theft; burglary of homes and out buildings and offences like poaching and hare coursing. These are the type of activities we have been cracking down on as part of Operation Firecrest.”
Anybody wanting to discuss concerns about rural crime or report suspicious activity, should contact local police on 101.
