The operation began after a fly-tip was discovered in Ongar in July. Environmental Enforcement Officers found evidence linking the waste to several addresses in the local area. Enquiries revealed that the incidents related to an individual who had collected waste from multiple addresses for payment. The suspect declined a voluntary formal interview on 18 September.
Reports from residents indicated that illegal waste was being stored and transported from a residential street, causing aggressive behaviour and negatively impacting the neighbourhood's quality of life.
On 24 September, with assistance from Essex Police, the suspect was arrested at their home in High Ongar. Environmental Enforcement Officers conducted further questioning regarding the fly-tipping offences at a police station.
During the arrest, and with support from the City of London Corporation, two vehicles linked to the suspect were seized. Suspected waste used in environmental offences was found within the vehicles. The investigation is ongoing.
Councillor Darshan Sunger, Environment & Regulatory Portfolio Holder, stated that the council takes a zero-tolerance approach to waste crimes and related anti-social behaviour. He highlighted the importance of residents reporting concerns and the value of partnership working between agencies and the public in identifying offenders.
Fly-tipping is described as blighting communities, damaging the environment, and costing councils millions annually, diverting funds from essential public services. New initiatives, including warning signs at hotspots, reinforce the message that fly-tipping will not be tolerated.
Chief Inspector Terry Fisher, Essex Police District Commander for Epping Forest, emphasised the essential nature of partnership working to address community issues and the impact of such activities on residents.
Householders are reminded of their legal duty of care under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 to ensure their domestic waste is transferred only to registered waste carriers. Residents should ask for details of where waste is going and obtain written receipts or waste transfer notes.
The council's enforcement officers found evidence linking the fly-tip to residential addresses. Residents are urged to ensure anyone paid to remove waste is properly registered and to keep transfer documentation. Failure to do so may result in a Fixed Penalty Notice of up to £600.
Information concerning fly-tipping or waste crime can be reported anonymously to Epping Forest District Council by calling 01992 564000 or online.
