Targeted police action disrupts dangerous driving in Thanet

Criminal activity on the roads has been targeted by Thanet officers following concerns raised by the local community.

On Monday 1 September, Kent Police carried out a dedicated traffic operation across Thanet, with concentrated attention in Dane Valley focusing on traffic offences and safety issues.

The initiative was in direct response to concerns raised by residents and business to the area’s Beat Officer, PC Godden. 

Thanet’s Neighbourhood Task Force and Roads Safety Unit worked together to focus on the fatal four of driving: speeding, drink driving, not wearing a seat belt and using a mobile phone. Proactive police patrols consisting of both marked and unmarked vehicles deployed across the district to apprehend suspicious drivers.

As a result:

• Four vehicles were seized for offences including no insurance and drug driving.
• Nine Traffic Offence Reports were issued for violations such as driving without a licence, using a mobile phone, and carrying insecure loads.
• Four Section 23 drug searches were conducted.
• Two arrests, one for possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and another for shoplifting.

Among the seized vehicles were:

• A Mercedes driven without a licence, with the driver testing positive for cannabis.
• A Peugeot linked to Class A drug supply.
• A VW whose passenger was found to be wanted for a number of shoplifting offences totalling over £160.

Inspector Richard Batten said:

‘This operation sends a clear message; criminal behaviour and reckless driving have no place on our roads. By acting on community concerns, Kent Police is actively making Thanet a safer place.’