Dartford Council and Kent Police have intensified efforts to crack down on illegal scrap metal carriers. Two men caught transporting scrap metal without the required licences now face substantial fines after joint operations uncovered their unlawful activities.
Armando Grecu, 26, from Ilford, was apprehended outside Mead Road shops in Dartford on May 14 during a joint operation known as Op Assist. His vehicle was found loaded with scrap metal but lacked a valid waste carrier’s licence. On November 21, Grecu was fined £300, ordered to pay a £120 victim surcharge, and £701 in costs, totaling £1,121 for breaching the law.
Earlier this year, Valerica Cismaru, 52, from Erith, faced similar charges. She was stopped at Barfield, Sutton at Hone on February 12 and subsequently fined £420 after being convicted at Sevenoaks Magistrates Court for illegally carrying waste.
Dartford Council leader Jeremy Kite issued a strong warning to the public: “If someone takes your scrap for disposal, always check for a waste carrier’s licence. It’s crucial to protect the environment and support legitimate local businesses.” He added, “Op Assist is a powerful partnership with Kent Police. Expect more busts like this as we clamp down on illegal waste activities.”
Police Sergeant Molly Irwin of Kent Police commented on the crackdown: “Targeting illegal waste carriers helps stop fly-tipping and protects our countryside. These crimes damage local communities and undercut honest businesses.” She continued, “By cracking down on offenders, we’re sending a clear message that environmental crime won’t be tolerated.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
