Enforcement officers from the crime and anti-social behaviour service joined forces with the Department for Work and Pensions in checking vehicles suspected of transporting waste illegally.

Police stopped thirteen vehicles on the day. Two drivers were requested to produce their certification of registration to transport waste within seven days. If they fail to do so, they will be issued with a fixed penalty notice for £300.

One person was caught fly-tipping and as result was arrested. Two people were arrested for theft of a motor vehicle and breach of the peace. One person was caught driving without insurance and another for taco graph offences.

Nine untaxed vehicles were removed from the public highway and the DWP are investigating six people for possible benefit fraud.

The operation was part of the International Operation Drum, where enforcement authorities across Europe set out to tackle the theft of scrap metal.

Councillor June Leitch, executive member for crime and anti-social behaviour, said: "Many people who transport waste illegally often use the borough's streets as a dumping ground. This is completely unacceptable. Not only is fly-tipping unsightly, it can also be a health hazard.

"The operation was an enormous success and hopefully the message will get across to other offenders that in Newham we will not tolerate this behaviour.

"We will continue to work with our partner organisations in taking action against the perpetrators to eradicate this nuisance."

It is an offence under Section 1 of the Control of Pollution (Amendment) Act 1989 to transport controlled waste without a valid certificate of registration. It is also an offence under Section 33 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 to unlawfully deposit waste on the public highway.