North Downs West

Road safety.

Several teams, including officers from the Community Safety Unit, Road Safety Unit and the Special Constabulary, worked alongside partner agencies to carry out a joint road safety operation. The operation focused on improving road safety and tackling moving traffic offences, which are offences committed while a vehicle is being driven, such as speeding, careless driving, using a mobile phone while driving and failing to wear a seatbelt. Checks were also carried out in relation to Trading Standards regulations and taxi licensing requirements.

The operation delivered significant results, with 34 Traffic Offence Reports (TOR) issued for a range of offences. A TOR is a formal record created when someone is suspected of committing a road traffic offence and may result in a fixed penalty notice, a driver education course or a court appearance. In addition, 8 vehicles and 1 e-scooter were seized after offences were identified. This successful joint operation demonstrates the continued commitment of police and partner agencies to improving road safety, ensuring legal compliance and addressing concerns raised by local communities.

Fly-tipping.

A recent road safety operation focused on identifying vehicles suspected of being linked to fly-tipping or operating without the required waste carrier licences. A waste carrier licence is a legal requirement for people or businesses that transport waste as part of their work and helps ensure waste is managed and disposed of lawfully. The operation enabled officers and partner agencies to carry out checks on vehicles and drivers where concerns had been raised.

Officers continue to work closely with local councils, Trading Standards and other partner organisations to identify those responsible for fly-tipping and take appropriate action where offences are detected. Fly-tipping is the illegal dumping of waste and can have a significant impact on rural communities, wildlife and the local environment. In addition to targeted operations, officers regularly patrol rural roads and locations that have been repeatedly affected by fly-tipping. These patrols provide a visible presence, help deter offending and support ongoing efforts to identify offenders and protect the local environment.

Theft.

Tackling theft remains a priority within the North Downs area. Officers continue to carry out proactive patrols and intelligence-led activity to identify, deter and take action against those involved in theft-related offences. This work includes regular patrols in areas where offences have been reported, ongoing engagement with local businesses and residents, and acting on information received about suspected offenders.

Information provided by the community plays an important role in helping officers identify those responsible and prevent further offences. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any thefts, suspicious behaviour or information that may assist police enquiries. Reports can be made by calling 101 for non-emergency matters, using Kent Police's online reporting services, or contacting Crimestoppers anonymously. If a crime is taking place at the time or there is an immediate risk to life or property, always call 999.

Residents can also help reduce the risk of becoming a victim of theft by taking simple crime prevention measures. These include locking doors, windows, garages and sheds; removing valuables from vehicles; securing bicycles with quality locks; recording serial numbers and taking photographs of valuable property; and considering security measures such as lighting, CCTV or doorbell cameras. Officers will continue to work proactively with the community to prevent theft, identify offenders and help keep the area safe.