Sting catches unlicensed waste teams

The operation, run by Sheffield Council and South Yorkshire Police, was organised to crack down on unlicensed firms who often fly-tip the rubbish they collect.

It was also designed to protect Sheffield residents – anyone using an unlicensed firm is also committing an offence and may be prosecuted.

The house, in Darnall, was filled with household waste and various companies were called to remove it.

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When they arrived, a back-up enforcement team accompanied by police pounced.

The initiative caught out five operators who, when interviewed by Environmental Enforcement Officers, admitted they would have removed the waste but did not have a licence. Officers also inspected their vehicles and uncovered several road traffic offences.

The event was organised as part of a 'Day of Action' on environmental crime across Yorkshire and Humberside.

Householders can check whether an operator is licensed by logging on to www2.environment-agency.gov.uk/epr/index.asp or calling the Environment Agency on 08708 506 506.

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