A JOINT operation targeting uninsured vehicles has led to multiple seizures, arrests and reports for dangerous driving offences - helping to keep Essex's roads safe for everyone.

Operation Scalis, carried out on Friday 20 March, saw officers from Essex and Kent Roads Policing Units, supported by the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB), conduct proactive enforcement at the Dartford Crossing and nearby Thurrock.

The operation focused on identifying drivers using the road network without valid insurance - a key risk factor linked to serious collisions and wider criminality.

Results from the day included:

• 16 vehicles seized for having no insurance
• 2 additional drivers reported for no insurance
• 3 drivers reported for driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence
• 2 vehicles issued with PG9 prohibitions for dangerous defects, including bald tyres
• 40 Traffic Offence Reports (TORs) submitted for a range of offences, including:
• Not wearing a seatbelt
• Using a mobile phone while driving
• Non‑conforming number plates and illegal window tints
• Expired MOT and vehicle tax

Two arrests were also made:

• One driver arrested for drug driving and possession of drugs after being stopped for having no MOT. Officers also found the vehicle's tyres were bald.
• One driver arrested after being seen driving on the wrong side of the A13. Officers pursued the vehicle and, after it was stopped, the driver was found to be wanted on two warrants. He was further arrested for dangerous driving, failing to stop for police, and having no insurance.

A police statement said: "Driving without insurance puts everyone at risk. Uninsured drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in serious collisions and may be linked to other offences, such as drug driving, dangerous driving, or using vehicles that are unsafe and unroadworthy.

"Operations like Op Scalis are designed not only to remove uninsured vehicles from the roads, but also to uncover wider criminality and prevent harm before it happens

Adam Pipe, Head of Roads Policing, said: "This was a brilliant team effort.

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"Most drivers do the right thing, but those who choose to drive without insurance put others at real risk. We know uninsured driving is often linked to wider offending, and this operation clearly demonstrated that.

"By taking uninsured vehicles off the road, we are making our communities safer and protecting responsible road users."

Essex Police say officers will continue to carry out intelligence‑led enforcement across the county, working with partners to target uninsured drivers and improve road safety.

Anyone who suspects a vehicle is being driven without insurance can report it to police via 101 or online. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.