POLICE seized 41 vehicles during a major roads policing operation in Thurrock as officers cracked down on uninsured motorists and dangerous driving.

The operation, carried out on Tuesday 10 November, formed part of the Motor Insurers' Bureau's (MIB) national Operation Drive Insured campaign, running from 9 to 15 November.

In a recent release MIB had revealed that Thurrock has the highest proportion of uninsured drivers in the east of Englzand.

Essex Police works closely with the MIB throughout the year, carrying out targeted enforcement in areas where uninsured driving is a particular concern.

During the Thurrock operation, officers seized 36 uninsured vehicles, along with four e-scooters and one e-bike.

One vehicle was also issued with a prohibition notice after officers discovered it was in such poor condition that it was unsafe to continue its journey.

The crackdown also uncovered wider criminal activity. One person was arrested on suspicion of drug-driving and immigration offences, while officers recovered a stolen vehicle.

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In total, officers issued 50 Traffic Offence Reports for a range of offences, including driving without insurance, driving without the correct licence, careless driving, having no valid MOT, illegal window tints, unlawful number plates and defective tyres.

Motorists were also reported for failing to wear seatbelts and using mobile phones behind the wheel.

Police have emphasised that driving without insurance is far more than an administrative offence.

Insurance provides essential financial protection when collisions result in injuries or damage to property. Uninsured motorists are statistically more likely to be involved in serious collisions and may also be linked to other criminal offences. Uninsured vehicles can also be poorly maintained, creating additional dangers for other road users.