Arrests made in rogue traders crackdown

Ten people were arrested and 16 vehicles seized during an operation to crack down on Mid Wales rogue traders, police say.

The joint operation between police, Trading Standards and the Environment Agency saw more than 140 vehicles stopped and checked in the Dyfed Powys Police area between April 19 and 23.

Four of the 10 people were arrested for allegedly being directly related to rogue trading activity. Of the vehicles stopped 16 were seized for motoring offences.

Detective Inspector Steve Cockwell said: "A significant number of crimes committed in Dyfed Powys are carried out by travelling criminals. Tackling this problem as a partnership enables us to exchange intelligence between police forces, Trading Standards and the Environmental Agency to ensure that these 'traders' don't simply move on to the next area.

"By seizing their vehicles, we deny rogue traders use of the roads and the ability to undertake their activities. We are determined to tackle rogue traders as they often target the elderly and most vulnerable persons within our communities."

He added: "If rogue traders think they are safe to operate within Dyfed Powys they should think again."