Gwent Police raided six separate properties across Gwent yesterday (Wednesday May 26th) as part of a co-ordinated crackdown on an organised crime group which is believed to have been operating in the area. Whilst the six addresses were searched Gwent officers also travelled to the Gloucestershire and South Wales Police areas to carry out additional warrants.
Metropolitan Police officers also carried out a warrant in their area as part the on-going investigation into a number vehicle thefts and burglaries which have occurred mainly in Gwent.
Operation Safari involved 80 Gwent officers including specialist dog handlers, local policing teams, Detectives, Gwent Police Support Group and Financial Investigators from the Regional Asset Recovery Team (RART). Four suspected stolen vehicles, a large amount of vehicle parts, and over £30000 were seized.
Detective Inspector Simon Thomas who led the operation commented:
“This is the first phase of an ongoing investigation to dismantle a suspected organised crime group operating in and around the Gwent area. We believe the group has been targeting high value vehicles and have also been involved in other criminal activity. We expect further arrests to follow as we link offences together and build a more complete picture of the suspected criminal activity.
“Today’s activity demonstrates that when we have credible intelligence we will act on it. I would urge anyone who has information about any criminal activity in their area to contact Gwent Police by dialling 101, in an emergency always dial 999.
