Vehicle checks on Norfolk/Suffolk Border

24 May 2012, 09:11 | Updated: 24 May 2012, 11:49

Over 50 vehicles were stopped and checked during 'Operation Identity' on the Norfolk/Suffolk border on Tuesday 22nd May using Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology.

Officers from Norfolk and Suffolk's ANPR Intercept teams were placed at strategically chosen locations on the Suffolk/Norfolk border between Beccles, Bungay and Ellingham, with the intention of stopping motorists suspected of crime, mainly metal-related thefts, burglary, handling stolen property and other offences of interest to police.

During the operation, 57 vehicles were stopped and occupants were dealt with for a range of offences including driving with a fraudulent vehicle excise licence, possession of cannabis, and driving with no valid MOT certificate. Two vehicles were also seized during the checks as they were being used with no insurance.

A 22-year-old man, Ryan Johnson from Harepark Close, Halesworth was arrested and has since been charged with intent to supply a controlled drug. He will be appearing before Great Yarmouth Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 26th June.

Sergeant Dave Freeman from Norfolk Constabulary’s Automated Number Plate Recognition Intercept Team said: “By using modern technology we were able to stop and process a number of vehicles for a wide range of offences.

“We hope that this operation has further demonstrated our commitment to using the latest technology and working jointly to tackle crime on Norfolk and Suffolk’s roads, whilst also providing a visible reassuring presence to members of the public on our County’s roads.”