Operation Checkpoint - a multi-force, cross-border rural crime operation involving multiple forces - ran this weekend.

It was primarily aimed at targeting travelling criminals operating between counties in the North of England; a number of organised crime groups operate between force areas committing acquisitive crime, poaching and wildlife crime offences.

Over the weekend West Lancs. neighbourhood officers focussed on hare coursing and fly tipping as this has been raised via the local communities as repeat issues.

Officers patrolling Downholland, Altcar, Haskayne, Halsall, Banks, Tarleton, Burscough, Rufford and Sollom found:

• four abandoned vehicles identified to be removed by West Lancashire borough council

• a stolen vehicle found from West Yorkshire
• one vehicle seized for having no insurance
• one vehicle reported for no tax
• multiple vehicles checked through our systems
• one person reported to court for Public Order for verbally abusing gamekeeper
• one van searched for scrambler bikes
• one scrap metal van stopped and waste removals licence checked
• various fly tipping spots identified

If you see any suspicious activity in your area please call us on 101.