Three people were arrested across West Kent as part of a crackdown on illegal scrap metal dealers.

Officers and specials from Maidstone, Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks and Tonbridge and Malling went on patrol at various yards last week, and also visited businesses selling second hand jewellery and other items.

During the operation Steven Jarvis was arrested in Addlestead Road, East Peckham, after the vehicle he was in was picked up by an ANPR system.

The 31-year-old, of Hampshire Drive, Maidstone was charged with driving without insurance or a licence and using a motor vehicle with a tyre tread of less than 1mm.

Lee Martin, 41, of Chatham Hill in Sevenoaks, was also charged with burglary after officers found three pushbikes at his home.

They were both bailed to appear before West Kent Magistrates’ Court next Tuesday.

A 31-year-old Maidstone man was also arrested in Wrotham after he made off from officers.

He was found with two wraps of drugs and subsequently arrested for possession with intent to supply cocaine and for driving while unfit through drugs. He has been bailed until April 18.

In total two enforcement notices were issued in Maidstone and one in Tunbridge Wells.

They included for drivers who were carrying scrap but did not have a licence to do so, unlawful loads and loads which were too heavy.

The Environment Agency also issued five notices for fly tipping offences and the DVLA clamped nine vehicles.

Insp Rachel McNeil said: "This operation was in joint partnership with other agencies, including the Environment Agency, DVLA and local councils, who all came together to work to tackle crime across West Kent.

"Kent Police continue to crack down on those who think they are above the law. We made some good arrests on the day and gained lots of intelligence which will be used to tackle crime going forward."