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The co-ordinated operation, involving Durham Constabulary, has led to multiple arrests and enforcement actions.
The initiative, named Operation Checkpoint, was led by Northumbria Police and was carried out across the region.
The operation resulted in the arrest of two men on suspicion of the theft of £50,000 worth of plant machinery, as well as on suspicion of the cultivation of cannabis.
During the same operation, another man was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of cannabis and a further individual was arrested in connection with an outstanding bench warrant.
Police also reported two drivers for summons following traffic offences- one for driving without a licence or insurance (the vehicle was seized), and the other for driving with no insurance or tax.
Another motorist was issued a fixed penalty notice for using a handheld device while driving.
As part of the operation, a vehicle reported stolen from Marske was located and recovered following an extensive area search conducted by several officers. Further enquiries into the incident are ongoing.
The operation ran on staggered shifts from 10am until 2am and saw the deployment of nearly 20 officers and two rural volunteers throughout the Cleveland force area. High visibility patrols were conducted both on foot and in vehicles.
More than 30 farms were visited as part of the engagement and reassurance phase of the operation.
A spokesperson for Cleveland Police said: “Every report relating to rural crime during that period was responded to appropriately.
“We hope our ongoing efforts will reassure farmers, land owners and managers, rural businesses and residents that we take their concerns seriously and will work with communities and partner organisations to tackle crime in the countryside.”
Cleveland Police also encouraged those affected by rural crime to consider joining the Rural Watch scheme.
“}]] Regional police forces have joined forces to help tackle rural crime across the North East. Read More
