Operation Bandit is underway in Dundee again today (Friday Jan 29) as Tayside Police aims to identify road traffic offences, unroadworthy vehicles and travelling criminals through the city.

The day-long operation – which began at 8.30am on the A90 Kingsway – follows an identical operation held a week ago on the A92 Arbroath Road and makes best use of latest technology in the form of the Automatic Number Plate Recognition systems.

Almost 4600 vehicles were checked by the ANPR during last week’s operation adjacent to Monymusk Park last Friday.

A driver and his company were charged after he was stopped and found to be driving an over-laden van. Another two drivers had their vehicles seized after it was discovered they were driving without insurance.

Two vehicles were identified as having no MOT and another vehicle was taken off of the road because of the dangerous condition it was in.

DVLA officials also seized six vehicles that were being driven without current tax discs, although five of the six drivers paid penalties immediately so they could resume their journeys.

Tayside Police identified a number of registration plate offences and issued warnings and advice in relation to minor road traffic offences, as well as gathering valuable intelligence for a number of ongoing enquiries.

Today’s operation will run on identical lines and is once again supported by other agencies, including VOSA (Vehicle and Operator Services Agency) and DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency).

Checks are being made to ensure that vehicles are fit for the road and that drivers have appropriate documentation. Officers will also identify any defective vehicles and, where appropriate, will use powers to seize vehicles and take them off the road.

ANPR camera equipment is supported by a number of national databases that can tell officers in a matter of seconds whether a vehicle has been stolen, or has been used in a crime or by criminals.

The cameras also have the capability to detect illegal number plates and Tayside Police will be enforcing legislation in this area where offences come to light.

ANPR cameras have the ability to check up to 3600 number plates an hour, including any vehicles that are travelling at excessive speeds and highlight any vehicles that require the attention of officers in the area to the force.

Tayside Police ask for the public’s assistance in their efforts to make our roads safer. If anyone has information about the illegal use of vehicles on the roads they should contact the police on 0300 111 2222, or speak to any officer.

Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.