Police in the North East have deployed drones for the first time to tackle the use of off-road bikes in rural hotspots - hailing the operation a "fantastic success".
The scheme, started in partnership with the British Transport Police, sees specialist drones operated by officers scour areas between Craster and Amble looking for vehicles.
Results from Morpeth’s Neighbourhood Policing team have already seen five vehicles seized within a matter of hours on March 26.
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John Swan, neighbourhood inspector for the area, has called the operation “fantastic”.
He said: “This is a fantastic example of the results we can achieve through inter-agency teamwork. Between our officers on the ground and our brilliant colleagues at BTP, who were our eyes in the sky, we managed to seize a haul of vehicles in just a few hours.
“Given the successes of this operation, we are looking to repeat this work more regularly to provide reassurance to residents and send the firm message that this behaviour will not be tolerated.
“We know that motorcycle disorder is an area of concern for many residents, and as a Force, we are committed to taking swift and robust action against riders who are involved in anti-social behaviour and wider disorder.”
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, has also praised the operation and the force behind it.
She said: “I know how motorbike disorder, caused by a small minority, can cause upset and concern amongst local communities and I hope this success shows how Northumbria Police is committed to working with others to explore new ways to clampdown on those involved.
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“I’ll continue monitoring this success and I know Northumbria Police will keep ensuring their police response explores new tactics and technologies so we can effectively drive down this unwelcome anti-social behaviour and keep our communities safe.”
Anyone with information regarding illegal off-road vehicles is asked to contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of our website or by calling 101.
You can also pass on information via independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by ringing 0800 555 111.
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