Two people were threatened with a hammer and had their scrap metal stolen in a robbery in the street.

A mobile phone and a bank card were also taken in Orion Road, Rochester on Thursday.

Later that day, police taking part in an operation tackling fly-tipping came across a suspicious vehicle in Chatham.

Officers stopped the 23-year-old driver and when they searched his truck suspected stolen items were recovered. The vehicle was also seized.

He was arrested in connection with the robbery.

Throughout the day, several vehicles were stopped and checks were made to ensure people carrying and moving waste were doing so legally and had the correct paperwork.

Sergeant Darren Walshaw, of the Rural Task Force, said: "Joint operations like this are so important to ensure people are not disposing of waste illegally.

"Many are unaware that they may be fined if their rubbish is linked to their household, even if they have paid someone to dispose of it."

"In addition to stop checks and targeted patrols, officers also visit scrap metal dealerships to ensure they are keeping accurate records.

"On this occasion, we did not have to issue any fines. This is a good opportunity however to remind the public that fly-tipping is not just littering, it is organised criminality.

"The problem blights communities and some waste, like asbestos, can pose a significant health risk to the public.

"Everyone has a responsibility to tackle this issue and I would ask anyone having waste removed from their property to ensure that the person taking their rubbish is licensed to do so.

"Many are unaware that they may be fined if their rubbish is linked to their household, even if they have paid someone to dispose of it.

"By working with our partners and local people we can make a positive difference and protect our countryside from fly-tippers."

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