Police clampdown nets seven

Date published: 26/06/2008

A police initiative to tackle criminals and people driving illegally on the borough’s roads has led to seven arrests and 78 vehicles being seized.

The nine-day crackdown, which ran between 9 and 19 June, used Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology to target offenders.

Of those arrested, three people were already wanted and four were arrested for disqualified driving.

Police also seized 25 unlicensed and 53 uninsured vehicles, and issued 12 endorsable and 242 non-endorsable fixed penalty notices.

Inspector David Shepherd of Rochdale Division said: “ANPR technology is a powerful tool against a whole range of crimes. Through roadside operations we can quickly and effectively identify vehicles that are not insured, do not have a valid MOT or have no road tax.

“Not only is this an offence, but research shows that half of all vehicles being driven without proper documentation are likely to be used in criminal activity. By impounding these vehicles we can disrupt, and in some cases prevent, illegal activity and make life more difficult for criminals.”