Three Arrested in Major Crackdown on Stolen Cars and Worker Exploitation in Rochester
Three men were hauled in and nine warnings slapped down during a hefty multi-agency raid targeting stolen vehicles and dodgy worker exploitation in Rochester.
Operation Targets Metal Firms on Medway City Estate
The swoop on 7 April 2021 zeroed in on three metal businesses based in Medway City Estate. Medway Council, HMRC, the Environment Agency, Kent Fire and Rescue Service, and the Home Office all pitched in to bring the crackdown home.
Shocking details emerged as officials found several workers and two young kids living in horrendous conditions. Medway Council’s Housing Team fired off nine Emergency Prohibition notices to the businesses. Ignore these and the firms could be staring down a £30,000 fine.
And it gets worse. The teams also uncovered an illegal bar breaking Covid-19 rules. The case was handed over to Kent Police Licensing for further action.
The Men Behind Bars – And The Charges
- A 55-year-old man from Strood was arrested for car theft and possession with intent to supply cocaine and cannabis.
- A 50-year-old Strood man faces charges for possession with intent to supply cocaine.
- Meanwhile, a 63-year-old Rochester man was snapped up during a vehicle stop in Rainham, suspected of handling stolen goods and carrying an offensive weapon.
All three were later released while investigations continue.
Police and Council Vow Tough Action
Sergeant Ross Haybourne, Kent Police Medway Community Safety Unit, said: “This was a pre-planned operation with multiple agencies. Using our combined powers and expertise, we will always take the toughest action against offenders.”
A Medway Council spokesman added: “Those who exploit workers often run other organised crime. We will keep working relentlessly to identify and stop these criminals.”
