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Motorists stopped in crackdown on unlicensed waste carriers and dangerous driving in Ambley Road, Gillingham

Dangerous drivers and unlicensed waste carriers were among those targeted as part of a police crackdown.

Officers carried out a series of patrols and 90 stop checks in Ambley Road, Gillingham, to tackle issues caused by illegal waste transfer and dumping, dangerous motorists, and anyone getting behind the wheel in unsafe vehicles.

Dangerous drivers and waste carriers were targeted by police. Picture: Kent Police
Dangerous drivers and waste carriers were targeted by police. Picture: Kent Police

The operation is a collaboration between Medway’s local policing team, Medway Council and the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency.

Last Thursday (March 9), three vehicles, which were shown not to be insured, were seized, as well as one licence being revoked after the driver failed a roadside eye test.

Traffic offence reports were issued to 10 drivers for various breaches of the law.

These included driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition, driving without an MOT or tax, illegal tints, bald tyres, or for numberplate offences.

Two drivers were issued vehicle defect rectification scheme notices giving them a deadline to have relevant repairs carried out.

The operation took place in Ambley Road, Gillingham, last Thursday. Picture: Google Maps
The operation took place in Ambley Road, Gillingham, last Thursday. Picture: Google Maps

One driver is being investigated by officers, but the exact reason was not disclosed by police.

Other motorists were offered advice and guidance around waste carrier licences.

Police Sgt James Callaghan said: "Our collaboration with partner agencies to clamp down on unsafe vehicles and dangerous drivers means we can improve the safety of road users in Medway.

"Defects and unapproved modifications might seem harmless but can be the cause of serious road traffic incidents if left unresolved, especially if combined with dangerous driving.

He added: "What’s more, breaches of waste licensing rules are all too often connected to fly-tipping, which impacts the environment and our rural communities.

"Operations with partner agencies take place regularly across the county and lead to action being taken against those who flout the rules of waste carrying."

Anyone considering having waste removed from their property should check the waste carrier they are using is licensed to carry out this activity, or they too could be at risk of a fine.

The Environment Agency website has a list of licensed waste carriers.

Anybody with information regarding waste crimes or traffic offences is encouraged to report them at the Kent Police website, through the Crimestoppers online form or by calling the charity on 0800 555 111.

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