Criminals and Unroadworthy Vehicles Targeted in Gravesend Operation

Authorities in Gravesend conducted a coordinated operation on Friday, 17 January 2025, targeting individuals using vehicles to commit crimes and those driving unroadworthy vehicles.

Joint Effort

The initiative involved local officers, Gravesham Borough Council Environmental Enforcement, and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), who set up patrols at multiple locations throughout the town.

Results of the Operation

• Drug Arrest:
  • A suspicious driver was stopped and searched, leading to the seizure of:
    • A quantity of Class A drugs
    • Two mobile phones
    • £440 in cash
  • The driver was arrested and taken into custody.
• Traffic Offences:
  • Four motorists received traffic offence reports for:
    • Driving without insurance
    • Using a mobile phone while driving
    • Displaying an illegal number plate
  • Two uninsured vehicles were seized.
• Safety Violations:
  • Three cars were issued prohibition notices for:
    • Illegal window tints
    • Defective lights
  • A heavy goods vehicle was given an inspection notice.

Police Statement

Chief Inspector Will Lay emphasized the importance of such operations, stating:

“Motorists using vehicles with serious defects should think twice before venturing onto the borough’s roads. These operations will continue at different locations on future dates in an effort to also deter criminals from travelling into the town.

“Our officers welcome the assistance offered by partners whose enforcement teams bring a range of skills. With their help, we aim to bring offenders to justice and ensure law-abiding members of the public can safely use the area’s road network.”

Ongoing Efforts

Authorities confirmed that similar operations will be conducted at various locations in the future to enhance road safety and deter criminal activity.

Local residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity or unsafe vehicles to the police