A recent focused traffic enforcement operation conducted by law enforcement officials in the Thanet area has resulted in both citations and arrests, underscoring the serious risk posed by illegal mobile phone use while driving.
The initiative, which ran between September 28 and October 9, 2025, involved officers stopping numerous vehicles. While many drivers received formal warnings regarding the dangers of distracted driving, multiple Traffic Offence Reports were issued for various violations. Significantly, the operation led to several arrests. In one incident, an individual operating a motorcycle was detained following an alleged failure to stop for police on a major roadway near Ramsgate. A 42-year-old man was subsequently charged with driving without a licence, failure to stop, and failing to display a required number plate.
In a separate event, another driver was apprehended on suspicion of drug-driving and other drug-related offences after a vehicle stop near Sandwich. The 27-year-old individual’s detention facilitated searches that resulted in the seizure of quantities of cannabis and ketamine.
Law enforcement authorities emphasized that the ongoing operation supports the broader Vision Zero strategy, which seeks to eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries. Mobile phone use while operating a vehicle is consistently classified as one of the ‘fatal four’ factors that significantly contribute to severe road incidents, alongside impairment by alcohol or drugs, excessive speed, and the failure to use a seatbelt.
PC Aaron Elder said:
‘This operation is really important, because despite the obvious and dangerous distraction that mobile phone use poses to drivers, we still see some who persist in offending – putting not just themselves, but also other road users at risk. It is totally unacceptable, and we will continue this enforcement activity to help make Thanet’s roads safer for all.’