NINE vehicles have been seized and two men have been arrested as part of Essex Police efforts to make Basildon’s roads safer.

Officers from the force’s “Roads Policing” team were recently stationed by a roundabout off a main link road into the town to spot any vehicle or driving offences. Drivers were directed into a nearby car park where their details were checked.

More than 60 vehicles were stopped over the course of the day as the Roads Policing team worked alongside members of the Safer Essex Roads Partnership.

A van driver was arrested for the possession of an offensive weapon and the vehicle he was driving was seized after previously being reported as stolen.

Echo: A motorcyclist has his details checked.A motorcyclist has his details checked. (Image: Essex Police)

Another man was arrested for drug driving, and eight other vehicles were seized for either being uninsured or the driver not having a valid license.

Police Constable Mike Bignell, who led the operation, said: “We want people to be safe on the roads – wearing seatbelts, with licences and insurance. However, there are a small minority who don’t wish to follow the rules.

“Our job is to stop them.”

Echo: Vehicles were directed into a police checkpoint.Vehicles were directed into a police checkpoint. (Image: Essex Police)

Officers carried out static road checks as part of Vision Zero, a project which aims to to reduce instances of people being killed or seriously injured on the roads of Essex.

PC Bignell added: “We had officers stationed to spot offences such as people not wearing seatbelts, using mobile phones, and vehicles lacking number plates or having tinted windows.

“The reaction from the people we’ve pulled over today has been very positive, they’re pleased we’re here to keep the roads safe.”

Echo: Officers check a vehicle after the driver is pulled over for not wearing a seat belt.Officers check a vehicle after the driver is pulled over for not wearing a seat belt. (Image: Essex Police)

Assistant Chief Constable Rachel Nolan joined the team on the operation.

She said: “Our officers are out on the roads every day of the year tackling criminality and this operation is part of our ongoing work to improve road safety and arrest those breaking the law.

“The people we’ve spoken to today have all taken the advice and been happy with the interaction – even the ones who have committed offences.

“Being visible in communities is absolutely key. The public tell us they like seeing us, they find it reassuring and we appreciate the impact it has.”