Swords, drugs and stolen goods seized in 'Mischief Night' police operation
Police seized several swords, recovered £150,000 of stolen goods and arrested three most wanted offenders in an operation coinciding with ‘Mischief Night’ across Yorkshire.
North Yorkshire Police put on extra patrols and stepped up activity in the targeted exercise during the November 4 tradition, which is long associated with harmless pranks but has seen criminal damage and disorder in recent years.
Mischief Night is traditionally observed across Yorkshire the night before Bonfire Night.
Officers in North Yorkshire made 14 arrests and seized a number of weapons during their day of action across York and Selby.
They recovered cannabis, suspected Class A drugs and weapons, and also arrested three of the area’s most wanted offenders, who were wanted for recall to prison.
Stolen property worth £150,000 was also recovered from a lock-up in West Yorkshire as part of an investigation into an HGV trailer theft from Selby.
Police also seized two knives, four swords and an illegally owned air rifle as part of Operation Tornado, which is the force’s monthly day of action.
Chief Constable Tim Forber from North Yorkshire Police said: "Operation Tornado is about much more than enforcement. It is about preventing crime, tackling anti-social behaviour and ensuring people feel safe in their communities.
"Mischief Night should not be used as an excuse for criminality or anti-social behaviour. Through operations like this, we are sending a clear message that we will take action against those who make life a misery for others, while continuing to support and protect our communities.”