As part of a series of operations, a joint operation with Police, Trading Standards and the Environmental Agency took place between 19th and 23rd April 2010 to tackle rogue traders which has resulted in over 140 vehicles being stopped checked in the Dyfed Powys area.
Operation Rogue trader aims to target those who
- overcharge for unsatisfactory services or goods,
- charge for unnecessary work,
- damage property to obtain money,
- leave work unfinished,
- intimidate in order to extort money.
Officers from each division in the force along with Local Trading Standards Officers and Environmental Agency Officers from each local authority took part in the operation which involved stopping vehicles which maybe used in this type of offence.
Its aim was to deter rogue traders through robust enforcement, and to raise public awareness of doorstep crime
Ten persons were arrested as a result of the operation, with four of the arrests 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. This type of crime can have a devastating affect on the victims
All over the force vehicles were being stopped and neighbourhood policing teams were out engaging with our vulnerable communities.
If rogue traders think they are safe to operate within Dyfed Powys they should think again as further operations will be conducted throughout the year.
I would urge anyone who comes across such operators to contact the police or Trading standards so we can stop these people from profiting at the expense of innocent people who hand over their money in good faith.”
Clive Jones, Principal Trading Standards Officer with Powys County Council and Trading Standards Representative on the All Wales group for the Dyfed Powys area added
“These operations are extremely effective, both to obtain intelligence and also to target the criminals who operate in the trade. It is further encouraging that legitimate traders, when asked, support these checks, as increasingly we challenge to focus on building enterprise and supporting good businesses whilst closing down the rogues.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dyfed Powys Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
