Dozens of dangerous drivers were caught in the act during a recent road safety crackdown in Kent, thanks to an unmarked police lorry used as part of Operation Tramline.
The initiative, run by Kent Police in partnership with National Highways, took place between Monday 10 March and Sunday 16 March 2025, targeting reckless and irresponsible driving across the county’s motorways.
The specially adapted Highways England HGV cab enabled officers from the Roads Policing Unit (RPU) to observe drivers from an elevated vantage point, allowing them to spot offences that are often missed by traditional patrols. Once detected, offending vehicles were pulled over by marked police cars following behind.
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Mobile Phone Use Tops Offence List
The operation saw 73 vehicles stopped, including 52 heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). The most common offence was using a mobile phone while driving, with 47 drivers caught endangering lives by handling their phones at the wheel.
Other offences recorded included:
- 9 drivers not wearing a seatbelt
- 5 for not being in proper control of the vehicle
- 3 drivers stopped for illegally using the hard shoulder
- 1 driver penalised for having an insecure load
A total of 22 traffic offence reports were issued, along with 50 graduated fixed penalty notices. In one case, a vehicle was seized for having no insurance.
‘We’re Committed to Keeping Roads Safe’ – Police
Chief Inspector Craig West, Head of Roads Policing at Kent Police, said:
“Unfortunately, there are still a number of drivers who put other road users at risk by breaking the law.
Our main priority is to ensure the public are kept safe, and the unmarked lorry is just one of the ways we seek to do that.
We are committed to protecting road users and our patrols will continue to take action against those placing others in unnecessary danger.”
National Highways: ‘Don’t Risk It for a Text’
Colin Evans, Regional Safety Programme Manager at National Highways, also stressed the dangers of distracted driving:
“Sadly, we know far too well how dangerous it is for drivers to be distracted at the wheel. You’re four times more likely to be in a crash if you use your phone while driving.
It’s disappointing to see that some drivers are still prepared to take that risk. But by working with our police partners in Operation Tramline, we hope to persuade people to reconsider their behaviour and help ensure everyone gets home safely.”
Continued Enforcement Ahead
Kent Police and National Highways have confirmed that Operation Tramline patrols will continue, as part of wider efforts to improve road safety and reduce casualties across the county.
Motorists are reminded that distractions, poor judgement, and unsafe driving decisions can have life-changing consequences — and officers will be watching, even when you don’t expect them.
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