"REAL progress" is being made in the battle against metal theft, according to Gwent Police.

More than £100,000 worth of metal and cabling has been recovered, 207 people arrested and 3,487 vehicles stopped since Gwent Police launched Operation Ignite in April in response to an increasing number of metal thefts in the area.

Working alongside the police on the operation are the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP), Environment Agency, DVLA, Trading Standards, VOSA, utility companies, local authorities and the British Transport Police.

So far a total of 856 people have been stopped and searched, 23 people reported for summons, 75 vehicles seized, six stolen vehicles recovered, 208 prohibition notices issued on vehicles and 256 vehicle tanks have been checked for 'red' diesel. Officers have close down two scrap yard and a further 10 have received enforcement actions.

A total of 48 people were reported to the DWP for working while claiming unemployment or disability benefits and 209 fixed penalty notices have been issued. Officers also took part in a national day of action against metal theft on Friday.

Chief Inspector Glyn Fernquest, who is leading Operation Ignite, said: "The force is making real progress in tackling this criminality, the results of which can affect us all. The enforcement work has led to some prolific metal thieves being arrested and prosecuted and the prevention work is helping people secure their property.

"We won’t become complacent and will continue to target those involved. I would urge anyone who has any information about metal thefts, or those involved in this criminality, to ring 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."