Thanet police are stepping up patrols to tackle criminal activity on local roads after hearing concerns from the community.
On Monday, September 1, Kent Police launched a focused traffic operation in Thanet, with a special emphasis on the Dane Valley area. Officers targeted traffic offences and other safety issues in a direct response to complaints from residents and businesses. The initiative was set up by PC Godden, the area’s local Beat Officer, who worked to address the community’s worries. Thanet’s Neighbourhood Task Force and Roads Safety Unit worked together to focus on the fatal four of driving: speeding, drink driving, not wearing a seat belt and using a mobile phone. Proactive police patrols consisting of both marked and unmarked vehicles deployed across the district to apprehend suspicious drivers.
As a result:
- Four vehicles were seized for offences including no insurance and drug driving.
- Nine Traffic Offence Reports were issued for violations such as driving without a licence, using a mobile phone, and carrying insecure loads.
- Four Section 23 drug searches were conducted.
- Two arrests, one for possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and another for shoplifting.
Among the seized vehicles were:
- A Mercedes driven without a licence, with the driver testing positive for cannabis.
- A Peugeot linked to Class A drug supply.
- A VW whose passenger was found to be wanted for a number of shoplifting offences totalling over £160.
Inspector Richard Batten said:
‘This operation sends a clear message; criminal behaviour and reckless driving have no place on our roads. By acting on community concerns, Kent Police is actively making Thanet a safter place.’