Several people were arrested after oil containers were stolen from a Watford town centre restaurant.

Police were alerted to a break-in at the rear of an eatery on Monday morning (March 20) before officers swooped and stopped a white Transit van.

They found several males who were arrested on suspicion of commercial burglary, going equipped to steal, and possession of offensive weapons.

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Watford Observer: Police stopped the van following a break-in at a Watford town centre restaurant.Police stopped the van following a break-in at a Watford town centre restaurant. (Image: Watford Borough Council)

It comes as Watford Borough Council’s environmental crime and CCTV teams have been collaborating with Hertfordshire Police to combat recent thefts and fly-tipping of used cooking oil containers from various town centre restaurants.

Phil White, senior environmental crime officer, said: “This successful operation is a testament to the continued cooperation between Watford Borough Council and the local law enforcement agencies.

“It is a reminder that criminal activities will not be tolerated and that the council remains committed to protecting our local community's environment and well-being.”

Watford Observer: Police made several arrests after the van was stopped.Police made several arrests after the van was stopped. (Image: Watford Borough Council)