Trading standards target rogue traders

Working in collaboration with West Mercia Police as part of Operation Rogue, officers from the council’s trading standards team went on a series of intelligence-led patrols in Shrewsbury and south Shropshire, looking to catch and disrupt rogues and protect members of the public.

They have also visited a number of banks and building societies in Shrewsbury, to offer advice to members of the public on how to avoid falling foul of the rogues.

Two vehicles were seized by police, illegal collection of scrap metal is now being investigated by trading standards, and further intelligence was gathered about the activities of traders who have recently been affecting the county.

Frances Darling, Shropshire Council’s trading standards and licensing operations manager, said: “Tackling rogue trader criminal activity is a top priority for the council’s trading standards team and we are determined to make it very clear that rogue traders are not welcome in Shropshire.

Enforcement

"We undertake intelligence-led targeted enforcement and work closely with partners on a local, regional and national basis to bring rogue traders to justice through the courts, and to secure compensation for victims wherever we can. Equally important is our crucial role in raising awareness of doorstep crime and helping prevent innocent people from falling prey.”

Joyce Barrow, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for communities, waste and regulatory services, said: “Operation Rogue Trader catches offenders and disrupts criminal activity.

"Our trading standards team know that rogue traders tend to be involved in a number of illegal activities, including distraction burglary, and do operate across county boundaries to commit offences. Working with multiple agencies means the council can play its part to seriously obstruct criminals and get them off the streets.

"Operation Rogue Trader is a core part of a wider strategy to ensure trading standards and the police work together so there’s no place for these kinds of criminals to hide, and the campaign provides a key platform to educate people and put a stop to doorstep crime in our communities.”

Activities during the week of action include executing warrants, identifying vehicles used by criminals through automatic number plate recognition (ANPR), conducting intelligence-led patrols and raids, and educating members of the public and frequently-targeted groups before they can be scammed.