Drug Drivers, Dodgy Licences, and Speeding Fines – Medway Safety Crackdown Hits the Streets
Traffic Sweeps Snare Four Suspects
On 15 March 2021, the Medway Community Safety Unit, backed by the Roads Policing Unit, launched a major crackdown targeting traffic offenders across Medway. The operation saw a series of stops focused on key trouble spots including Cuxton Road, Strood, Rope Walk, Chatham, and Corporation Road, Rochester.
A 43-year-old man from Romney Marsh was arrested for suspected drug driving in Cambridge Road, Chatham, but has since been released pending further investigation.
A 40-year-old Sheerness man was also arrested after officers discovered an outstanding court warrant for failing to complete community service. He has appeared before magistrates, fined, and ordered to complete his community service.
Additionally, a 29-year-old Chatham resident was arrested in Rochester on suspicion of shoplifting and being equipped for theft. He remains released pending further enquiries.
Seizures and Summons Galore
- One driver was summonsed for driving while disqualified and had their vehicle seized.
- An uninsured vehicle was confiscated in Strood.
- Another vehicle was seized in Chatham due to the driver lacking both a licence and insurance.
- A car was impounded in Rochester for no road tax.
- A further vehicle was seized on Corporation Road for driving without a licence.
Speeding and Motoring Offences Rampant
Officers issued five speeding tickets, with the quickest offender clocked at 46mph in a strict 30mph zone. Drivers were also reported for:
- Using mobile phones while driving
- Failing to wear seatbelts
- Excessive window tinting
- Incorrectly sized number plates
Inspector’s Warning to Motorists
“We regularly carry out these proactive safety operations and although the vast majority of motorists in Medway drive responsibly and within the law, a small minority still flout the rules,” said Inspector Steve Bassett of the Medway Community Safety Unit.
“We target hotspots identified from resident feedback and patrols, and take firm enforcement action where necessary. If residents have concerns affecting their area, please report them via our website or by calling 101. Your reports help us get an accurate picture of local issues, which we act upon.”
