THREE people have been reportedly arrested for running illegal radio stations in London – as part of a continuing campaign by broadcasting regulators, Ofcom, to stamp out illegal broadcasting.
Yesterday’s action, involving police plus staff from the London Boroughs of Hackney, Haringey, Tower Hamlets and Islington, also saw the seizure of 22 transmitters.
It has emerged that, in December, an illegal radio station operating in Aviemore was raided, with its equipment seized and its operator given an official warning from Ofcom.
There have been similar other raids in Scotland, including – adds Ofcom – one conviction.
Says Ofcom: “Illegal broadcasters can cause interference to safety-of-life services, such as the fire brigade and air traffic control, as well as licensed broadcasters, denying listeners their choice of music and news. Illegal stations cause significant damage to rooftops, resulting in expensive repair bills at public expense.”
Ofcom estimates that there are over 150 illegal stations operating in the UK, with half of those broadcasting across London and the south-east of England.
For more, click here.
