A number of fines, warnings and penalties were issued and an arrest made during a police traffic operation.

Essex Police carried out the operation on Timberlog Lane in Basildon and motorists were dealt with for traffic offences – including drug driving and mobile phone use at the wheel.

The operation led to an arrest and a seized vehicle with one driver caught drug driving without a valid license or insurance.

On Saturday the 20th October, officers from the Basildon Local Policing Team and Specials from the forces Casualty Reduction Unit issued awareness courses to 40 drivers for not wearing seatbelts, issued a £200 fine and six points to 12 people for driving whilst using a mobile phone, and fined 10 for being caught speeding.

A further 13 drivers were reported for other offences, including no MOT and careless driving.

PC Dean Young said “With so many drivers caught on one road, it shows the need for our traffic operations. There is no excuse for using your mobile phone at the wheel or not wearing your seatbelt. The operation was also an opportunity for Special Constables from our Casualty Reduction Unity to use their skills to help keep the public safe.”

Special Constable Curtis Price, one of the newly-trained specials on the operation said “As a Special, it’s good to receive support from our regular officers so we can volunteer our time to protect the county.”