DOZENS of reports have been issued with cars seized in a police operation targeting uninsured drivers using the Dartford Crossing.

Essex Police and Kent Police joined forces to target those breaking the law in the two force areas on and around the crossing where there are "potentially high" levels of uninsured vehicles.

During the Operation Scalis day last Wednesday, 12 vehicles were seized including two motorcycles, 30 tickets were issued for speed offences, and 38 traffic offence reports were issued for seatbelts, phones, careless driving and other offences.

Police officer completing paperwork at LakesidePolice officer completing paperwork at Lakeside (Image: Essex Police)

A fraud investigation has also been launched as a result of the day of action and an arrest for immigration offences was made.

Chief Inspector Craig West, head of roads policing at Kent Police said: "Law abiding motorists are put at unnecessary risk by those who flout the law and we are committed to repeatedly targeting uninsured drivers to make the roads safer. 

"In addition to the financial implications those who drive uninsured are often linked to other criminality and we are keen to get these vehicles off of our road network.

"Our message is simple, if driving uninsured be prepared to have your vehicle seized, risk it being crushed and face significant fines and points on your licence."

Volkswagen Golf seized by police for being uninsured (Image: Essex Police)

On the day a second arrest was made when a vehicle was stopped for not holding insurance. Enquiries established the driver did not hold a driver’s licence or tax, but more importantly, was wanted on warrant in connection with an investigation relating to an offensive weapon offence.

Head of Essex Police's Roads Policing Unit, Mr Adam Pipe said: “We are committed to a collaborative approach to drive down road casualties and support road victims by upholding the law.

“By forging strong relationships with those who share our ambition to make roads safe for everyone we can tackle this issue together.”

Previously in Essex, three Operation Scalis days have been held resulting in 35 additional vehicles being seized and drivers reported.