A FOUR-PRONGED crackdown from the police over the weekend led to a number of off-road bikes and vehicles being seized.

The Caerphilly branch of Gwent Police were assisted by a drone team, special constables, Natural Resources Wales and community support officers to target "illegal off-road" biking on Mynydd Machen and Mynydd Maen.

"Numerous vehicles" were seized and others were "reminded" of the lockdown laws.

South Wales Argus:

(Vehicles were loaded onto a two-truck and taken away. Picture: Gwent Police.)

Drone footage was relayed to officers who then stopped the bikers.

Chief Constable for Gwent Police Pam Kelly congratulated the team on their work, saying: "Great work and well done."

South Wales Argus:

(The bikers were also reminded of the lockdown rules. Picture: Gwent Police.)

A tweet from the force's Caerphilly branch read: "Successful operation today targeting illegal off-road biking on Mynydd Machen and Mynydd Maen - numerous vehicles seized and others reminded of responsibility not to travel unnecessarily at this time.

"Many thanks to the drone operators, officers, CSOs, @GPSpecials and partners from @NatResWales who joined us today to keep the area safe for legitimate exercise. [sic]"

South Wales Argus:

(Officers were aided by the use of a drone. Picture: Gwent Police.)

A member of the public replied, saying: "Well done and thank you.

"These bikes are an environmental nightmare on so many levels.

"Hopefully there is a persistent long term strategy to protect the community."

South Wales Argus:

(A number of vehicles were seized. Picture: Gwent Police.)

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South Wales Argus:

(Officers were helped by Natural Resources Wales. Picture: Gwent Police.)