Weapons have been recovered and a ‘bilking’ offence was detected following two successful ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) hits in South Mimms last week.
A blue Mitsubishi Shogun was stopped at the South Mimms BP Service Station by road policing officers after the car was flagged up during a covert ANPR operation on August 1, by Hertfordshire Police.
Two people were arrested. The day before, on Thursday July 31, three people were arrested for a bilking offence during another proactive ANPR operation. A Rover went into the service station, filled up with petrol and left without paying. Three people were arrested on suspicion of making off without payment.
“We have seen an increase in bilkings of petrol and diesel at the South Mimms service station which prompted us to carry out these regular successful covert operations,” said PC Stuart Fraser.
“Through ANPR, we are able to actively pursue drivers that are not insured or have no tax, as well as others that are flagged up on the Police National Computer database. Our aim is to deny criminals the use of roads in Hertfordshire.”
Central Area Road Policing Sergeant Kio Bozorgi said: “Illegal firearms are unusual in Hertfordshire, however, it is important for drivers to be aware that some people may be carrying dangerous weapons and it is advisable, not to get into a road rage situation with anyone for your own safety. We are committed to finding these weapons and using ANPR is one of our tactic options but we also carry out overt and covert operations and will continue to do so to make sure South Mimms does not become a soft option for offenders using the county’s roads to commit crime.”
ANPR background
Police describe ANPR is a crime reduction and key investigative tool – it targets criminals who use vehicles. Its aim is to deny criminals the ability to move freely around the county to commit crimes.
During an active ANPR operation criminals who travel are stopped and dealt with by police. ANPR has led to the arrest of burglars, robbers and drug dealers, among others. ANPR not only reduces crime but can be used to reduce fatalities and serious injuries on the roads. Drivers without insurance are more likely to have been involved in other crimes.
