Police and partners have launched the first in a series of annual partnership initiatives to target Rogue Traders and Bogus Callers operating in North Ayrshire.
Earlier today (Tuesday 5th February 2019) police set up a vehicle check point at Ardrossan Road, Seamill and thereafter conducted joint patrols with partners in the North Coast locality.
Representatives from North Ayrshire Council Trading Standards and StreetScene were present alongside colleagues from the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) who were checking compliance with legislation relating to the carriage of waste in an effort to prevent fly-tipping in the area.
Over 60 vehicles were stopped at the check point as officers conducted checks to ensure the roadworthiness of vehicles and ensure drivers had the relevant documentation for their use on the road. 2 drivers were issued fixed penalty notices for alleged vehicle defects, 1 driver was reported for no excise licence and 23 drivers given advice relating to the maintenance of their vehicle and carriage of waste.
PC Colin Johnson, Preventions and Interventions Officer in North Ayrshire, commented
“today’s operation saw local officers and partners engaging with drivers, raising awareness of our work to target rogue traders among legitimate businesses and ensuring the safety of vehicles on the road network.
“Community Planning partners are committed to a safer North Ayrshire - doing all we can to protect the most vulnerable in our communities who unfortunately are often targetted by unscrupulous individuals posing as genuine traders.
“We would like to thank drivers for their cooperation and would encourage anyone with information on illegal drivers or doorstep criminals to contact us by calling 101 (in an emergency always dial 999).”
Information can also be passed via the independent charity CrimeStoppers by calling 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.