Cross-border criminals targeted after spate of thefts in rural areas

A joint operation targeting cross border criminals in rural communities took place last night following a spate of recent thefts from vehicles.

The high visibility presence saw the North Wales Police rural crime team, roads policing unit, drone team, dogs section and Wrexham neighbourhood policing team join Cheshire Police, West Mercia Police and Dyfed Powys Police as part of Operation Blue Vision.

It was in response to an increase in the number of reports of vehicles being broken into, car key burglaries and the theft of tools in rural border areas including North Wales, Cheshire and West Mercia.

A large number of stop checks were made on vehicles capable of carrying tolls and equipment travelling in areas of Wrexham, Chirk, Oswestry and Welshpool on the A483, A5 and A458 in a bid to disrupt criminals using the borders to commit crime.

Those who were stopped were made aware of the operation and the recent criminal activity in the area and asked to report any suspicious behaviour to police.

Sergeant Pete Evans of the North Wales Police rural crime team said: “Operation Blue Vision was a chance to highlight the work that goes on to tackle cross-border criminality with our colleagues in Dyfed Powys Police, Cheshire Constabulary and West Mercia Police.

“I hope it has sent out a clear message that by working together as one team, our borders are not a place to hide, and we will pursue those engaging in criminality.

“These types of operations will continue over the coming months, so don’t be surprised if you are stopped.

“If you see anything suspicious in your area or have concerns about crime, please report it to us on 101, or via the website.”