Kent Police conducted a week-long crackdown on the M20, M2, A2, and M25 from January 7 to 13, catching 44 drivers for various offences. The operation resulted in fines, penalty points, and educational advice for offenders.
Police used an unmarked Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) provided by National Highways, known as a ‘supercab’, which allowed officers to observe drivers inside their vehicles and catch rule-breakers in the act. Among those caught were nine LGV drivers, nine heavy goods vehicle operators, and 26 other motorists.
The offences recorded included using mobile phones while driving, not wearing seatbelts, speeding, poor vehicle control, driving uninsured, carrying insecure loads, and driving under the influence of drink or drugs.
The crackdown led to 31 Traffic Offence Reports, 10 fixed penalty notices, and two court summonses being issued.
Tensions increased on January 10 when a police motorbike officer detected cannabis smoke from a car near Junction 7 of the M20. The driver was arrested on suspicion of drug driving. Further arrests on suspicion of drug driving occurred on January 13 at Junctions 8 and 5 of the M20. During one stop, police also seized a knife from a vehicle. All suspects have since been released pending further investigations.
Chief Inspector Craig West said, “Despite the rules, a minority of motorists still break the law. A moment’s distraction — texting, calling or fiddling with a laptop — can wreck lives. The unmarked lorry gives us a unique eye into drivers’ cabs. Offences mean fines and points — is it really worth the risk? Those caught should learn and drive safely. We won’t hesitate to act against those putting others in danger.”
Colin Evans, Regional Safety Programme Manager for National Highways, added, “Most people drive safely, but a few flout the law and endanger everyone. Using supercabs alongside police, we want all drivers to think twice and get home safely.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
