A covert operation has been launched using hidden cameras to catch fly-tippers making Thetford residents' lives a misery.

A covert operation has been launched using hidden cameras to catch fly-tippers making Thetford residents' lives a misery.

For years an assortment of rubbish has been unceremoniously dumped about the town, blocking alleyways, causing health hazards and looking unsightly.

Now Breckland council has said enough is enough and has set up covert surveillance cameras in a bid to catch the culprits in the war against fly-tipping.

Keith Fuller, clean neighbourhood enforcement officer, said: “Our aim is to inform and educate. And we have tried. Letters have been sent, talks given, but certain people aren't paying attention. That was the carrot and now this new clampdown is the stick.

“When people dump rubbish blocking alleyways, near shops etc, people's lives are in danger. There has been a history of fires starting and spreading as a direct result of this.

“Thetford is so bad we've had fire officers concerned, the police, and environmental health and health and safety involved.

“They make the council's life a misery and the residents' lives a misery.”

Last week, a series of covert cameras were placed in secret locations around the fly-tipping hotspots in Thetford, with the council refusing to reveal where they are hidden as they plan to prosecute the offenders.

Mr Fuller said: “I can't say too much about it because we will prosecute these people. We will be regularly checking the cameras in case someone finds them or tampers with them. And people caught on camera we plan on taking to court.”

If prosecuted and convicted, fly-tipping offenders can end up paying clean up costs, investigation costs and receive fines of up to £50,000 or sentenced to five years imprisonment.

In April, Breckland Council prosecuted two fly-tippers at Swaffham Magistrates Court, who were each ordered to pay costs and sentenced to 100 hours' community service.