Thames Valley Police join multi-force operation to crackdown on criminals exploiting cross-borders and transport networks

Last week Thames Valley Police joined up with multiple police forces to combat serious criminals exploiting the transport network for criminal purposes.

Operation Pandilla, aims to proactively address serious acquisitive crime and County Drugs Lines by making use of automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology and intelligence sharing across forces.

The operation resulted in 85 arrests, 85 vehicle seizures, 11 weapon seizures, 41 drug-related seizures and over £10,000 in cash confiscated.

Targeted crime types include high harm offences such as robbery, burglary, grievous bodily harm, supply of class A drugs, theft of motor vehicles and possession of offensive weapons.

Detective Superintendent Nicole Murphy said: “This operation exemplifies the strength of our joint efforts across multiple forces.

“By sharing intelligence across police forces, we continue to tackle criminal activity taking place across our policing borders.

“I hope that our communities feel reassured that such criminal behaviours are met with swift and robust action. We are committed to disrupting crime and safeguarding our communities.

“We actively respond to your concerns as the public, and the information from our communities is crucial in identifying and intercepting criminality. If you notice anything suspicious, please report it online or by calling 101.

“Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.”

Since Operation Pandilla has been operating more than 2,700 arrests have been made, 1,216 vehicles seized as well as 315 weapons and £545,850 in cash.