Essex Police officers and special constables carried out a major road safety check in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, on 7 March 2026 to catch dangerous drivers and remove unsafe vehicles from the streets. The initiative, known as Operation Scalis, resulted in several arrests and more than a dozen cars being taken off the road.
During the day of action, officers reported 16 people for driving without insurance and seized 13 vehicles. They also issued 29 reports for various other driving offences and arrested four people for drug driving or possessing drugs.
The project is a partnership with the Motor Insurers’ Bureau to identify motorists who use the roads without the correct paperwork. Police explained that removing these vehicles helps to reduce risks for all other road users in the community.
Officials from Immigration Enforcement also joined the police at the roadside to carry out 22 enquiries regarding the status of individuals. Their involvement in the operation led to one person being arrested.
Police say these routine stops are an effective way to disrupt wider criminal activity while ensuring local transport routes remain safe. By focusing on vehicle safety and insurance, officers are often able to identify other illegal acts taking place in the area.
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