Anti-terror snooping law used for fly-tippers and parking
Councils have used controversial surveillance legislation to combat “low-level” offences, such as the misuse of blue badge parking permits, fly-tipping and benefit fraud.
The Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (Ripa) 2000 gives certain public bodies the right – under limited circumstances – to conduct surveillance activities, including for crime prevention and national security purposes.
At least 70 councils in England and Wales were authorised to use Ripa powers between January 2018 and March 2021 to gather evidence via cameras, street surveillance and informants or undercover officers.
Source: Revealed: anti-terror snooping law used for fly-tippers and parking | Surveillance | The Guardian
