Equipment was seized and its operator given an official warning from industry regulator Ofcom.

It follows a recent operation by the communications regulator to crack down on unlicensed broadcasting across the UK.

Earlier this week, three other people were arrested for running illegal radio stations in London as part of Ofcom's drive to stamp it out.

A spokeswoman for Ofcom confirmed that until recently a pirate radio station had been operating in Aviemore but it was put off the air following a raid in December.

She was unable to provide further details of the case including the number of the operator, however, when approached by the 'Strathy' this week.

"There have no further complaints made, and this person has not gone back on the air (since Ofcom's intervention)," the spokeswoman said.

She added: "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.

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