Local police will team up with forces across Wales for a two-week blitz on illegal motorists.
The latest vehicle recognition technology (ANPR) will be used to crack down against those who drive whilst disqualified, drive with no insurance or drive without a valid licence.
“This kind of policing is about denying criminals use of the roads, saving the ordinary driver from higher insurance premiums and reducing road casualties,” said Assistant Chief Constable Nick Croft who chairs the All Wales Roads Policing Joint Advisory Group.
“Driving without insurance and the appropriate driving documents is not only damaging to the Welsh economy, but also socially unacceptable. The progress made so far by the police to reduce the levels of uninsured and illegal drivers is significant.
“By working together we can present an even stronger barrier against criminal behaviour, making the perpetrators’ life difficult, preventing the spread of crime, and ultimately bring criminals to justice.”
A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “Our aim is make our roads safer and if you drive while disqualified, you need to understand that you risk imprisonment. Our task of identifying illegal vehicles on the road has been enhanced by the use of the ANPR, thus increasing your risk of being caught.
“Not only are these motorists driving illegally but they often have vehicles which are not road worthy which could become involved in collisions causing harm or worse to other law abiding motorists.
“Severe penalties await drivers who are putting law-abiding motorists at risk. Disqualified drivers will not be tolerated and those who continue to flout the law will face up to 6 months imprisonment as well as a fine of up to £5,000 and six penalty points.”
During the campaign, officers will be utilising ANPR technology and working closely with their colleagues at the DVLA and Motor Insurance Bureau.
If anybody has information about illegal drivers they should contact the police on 101, the Force’s non-emergency line, or Crimestoppers Wales anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Statistics
Mywelshpool has been given the following statistics which show why you should play your part in reporting illegal drivers.
Uninsured drivers are:
- Three times more likely to have been convicted of driving without due care and attention
- Six times more likely to drive an unsafe vehicle
- Nine times more likely to be involved in a road traffic collision
- 10 times more likely to have a drink drive conviction