Arrests made in connection to illegal waste dumping near M25
Environment Agency and police seize lorry and devices in waste crime probe
Last updated 14th Feb 2026
Two men have been arrested in Essex in connection with the illegal dumping of waste near the M25.
The arrests were made on 6th February after police responded to reports of waste being deposited on private land near the M25’s junction with the M11 in Stapleford Tawney.
Officers detained a 55-year-old from Horley, Surrey, and a 25-year-old from Mullaghbawn, County Armagh, and questioned them on behalf of the Environment Agency.
A lorry loaded with construction and demolition waste was seized at the site, along with two mobile phones and a laptop intended to aid further investigations.
Barry Russell, Environment Manager for the northern home counties, expressed public frustration, stating: “I share the public’s anger at waste crime, where those responsible have no care for the environment”
He thanked the individual who reported the crime, crediting Essex Police for their swift response.
Russell advised anyone with information related to the alleged waste crime or similar offences to contact the Environment Agency’s hotline or CrimeStoppers, assuring confidentiality.
The arrests in Essex form part of a larger effort by the Environment Agency and police forces across England to combat waste crime, fraud, and money laundering.