[MargaretR]

I notice that all who have posted here have assumed that what was reported is true.
You have been shown a photo of the 'gear'.

There is nothing to prevent such equipment being hired for a photoshoot.

What matters is the public perception that the equipment has been bought and will be used.

That is the deterrant to offending.
Whether or not the council has that gear won't be known until it has been used to catch an offender.