More than 200 vehicles stopped during a police operation.

Police in Devon have been cracking down on metal thefts throughout the region during a month-long campaign.

Response officers supported by local policing teams implemented Operation Mountain last month in a bid to reduce the number of metal thefts.

Inspector Dave Meredith said: “Stop checks on vehicles were generally very well received, with several drivers of commercial vehicles stating that their business had suffered losses over recent months from the increase in metal thefts.

“This operation sends out a clear message that Devon and Cornwall police recognise the impact of metal thefts on the community, and are prepared to dedicate resources to detect and deter offenders involved in these crimes.

“This operation was a great success and shows that the force can effectively dedicate its resources to address strategic crime issues throughout the force area.”

As part of the campaign officers conducted stop checks, particularly at night, and the Automatic Number Plate Recognition Team was also used.

More than 200 vehicles were stop checked.

There were also high-visibility patrols conducted in areas near to locations that had been targeted by metal thieves as well as at scrap metal yards

Members of the public are urged to call the police if they witness anything suspicious,