A CAMPAIGN has been launched by Essex Police to stop illegal metal detecting at night around the county.

Known as “nighthawking”, it involves removing historical artefacts and treasures from land for profit.

The force has launched Operation Chronos, in conjunction with Historic England, to urge landowners to report it when it happens.

Nighthawkers will enter land with metal detectors without permission. Removing items in these circumstances is theft.

Counties like Essex are particularly vulnerable to this crime due to the rich heritage and large amounts of arable land in these areas.

PC Andy Long, heritage officer for Essex, added: “We are asking landowners and people in rural areas to gather evidence by taking registration numbers of vehicles and descriptions of those involved, and pass these details to the police immediately by calling 101.

“We would urge people not to approach nighthawkers as you may be placing yourself in danger if they become aggressive.”