More than 100 vehicles were stopped and five people arrested in a rural crime crackdown.

The operation, staged earlier this month, was part of Operation Checkpoint, an initiative aimed at tackling rural crime, wildlife, and poaching offences.

Northumbria Police joined forces with Cumbria, Cleveland, and Police Scotland, supported by more than 20 Rural Crime Volunteers.

The collective effort resulted in 131 vehicles being stopped, 14 searched, and two seized.

Nine people were stopped and searched, and five people were arrested including a wanted suspect.

Two fixed penalty notices were issued, and two people were reported for driving without insurance.

Inspector Garry Neill, of Northumbria Police’s dedicated Rural Crime Team, said: "Operation Checkpoint is a great example of police forces and partners working together to deliver positive results.

"We are committed to protecting our rural communities and prevent them being targeted.

"We want to send a very clear message to anyone intent on travelling across borders to commit offences that we are here to stop you in your tracks."