Six people were arrested

POLICE carried out a series of early morning raids today (Wednesday), in an operation targeting scrap metal theft.

Six people were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to steal and burglary, and warrants executed at seven addresses across North Herts, with teams travelling to Baldock, Hitchin, Letchworth GC and Royston.

It follows months of work by officers, who went undercover to buy stolen scrap metal. The street value of the scrap accumulated is believed to be thousands of pounds.

One man was arrested in a garage in Letchworth GC, surrounded by human faeces. Officers believed he had been sleeping there.

All suspects were taken to Stevenage Police Station for further questioning.

• For more on this story, check the website throughout the day and see tomorrow’s paper.