Suffolk Police take part in multi-agency day of action to prevent crime on county roads
A main checkpoint at the Tesco truck stop, next to the A12/A14 Copdock Mill interchange, was complemented by an increased police presence in the town
As part of Operation Alliance, Suffolk Police undertook a day of action to tackle criminals using the county's roads along with support from officers belonging to police forces from six other Eastern counties.
A main checkpoint was established at a Tesco truck stop next to the A12/A14 Copdock Mill interchange, with officers from Suffolk who were supported by forces from Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent and Norfolk.
They also worked with representatives from the Environment Agency, the DVSA and DVLA, Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority and several other partners.
We spoke to Sergeant Julian Ditcham, from the Roads and Armed Policing team, one of the officers at the site. He said: "We're here to deny criminals the use of the road, to stop county lines and other offences. Also, we're using the occasion to promote road safety by offering advice, education, engagement and enforcement."
Through the day, a number of people were arrested on suspicion of crimes including drug driving and theft.
Vehicles with defective brake, indicator lights or tinted windows were also called into the checkpoint and inspected, and necessary action was taken.
"The last thing we want in this county is any injuries or fatalities on the road. We've also caught people who were using their mobile phones or not wearing their seatbelts, so we're trying to address all those factors that cause fatal road traffic collisions.
"We want people to understand that if they comply with the law and you'll be in a lot safer place", says Sgt Ditcham.
He explains the message they would like to send out through the initiative. "For the criminals out there who want to use the roads in Suffolk or any other county to be fair, we're looking for you and we're out there to stop you."
"We're trying to detect these offences and clean up our roads."