Operation Alloy nabs more scrappy offenders

FIVE people have been arrested over offences in a major clampdown on scrap metal thieves and rogue traders.

More than 100 police officers visited metal dealers and motor salvage operators across Greater Manchester as part of Operation Alloy.

The new Scrap Metal Act, introduced this month, prompted a new round of police investigations.

Police and agencies such a the tax authorities and vehicle licensing stopped more than 200 vehicles last week, 14 of which were seized. Almost 80 offences were recorded, and five people arrested with over £10,500 in fines the result.

In the 12 months since Alloy began, police action has resulted in a fall in scrap metal-related crime of around 70 per cent.