Over 1,000 Untaxed Vehicles Clamped

Untaxed vehicles are being targeted in a major enforcement campaign.

Over 1,000 untaxed vehicles were 'clamped' across Northern Ireland in a New Year operation, it was revealed today.

NI Environment Minister Sammy Wilson said that a total of 1,074 unlicensed vehicles were removed from the roads during 'Operation Evader'.

It was jointly run, by the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA), and the PSNI and was targeting vehicles that were untaxed for more than 28 days. It ran during January and February.

The Minister said: "I would like to commend all those involved in this operation to remove untaxed vehicles from our roads. Unlicensed vehicles are a menace.

"Many are unroadworthy and they present a real danger to all road users and pedestrians.

"By taking them off our roads, we are making Northern Ireland safer for everyone. The success of Operation Evader shows just how determined the authorities are to tackle the problem and we will continue to fight it."

Inspector Gary McComb, from PSNI Roads Policing said: "Untaxed and unregistered vehicles are difficult to trace and are often used by criminals, uninsured and unlicensed drivers who engage in erratic and dangerous driving.

"For everyone's' safety, it is essential that we detect and remove these vehicles and drivers from our roads.

"Police now also have the power to seize uninsured vehicles and vehicles causing alarm, distress or annoyance.

"Our message is very clear. If you are detected driving an untaxed or uninsured vehicle on the road, the vehicle can be seized on the spot and you will face the full rigour of the law."

Under legislation enacted last October, the DVA was given increased powers including the clamping and removal of vehicles in any public place such as car parks and even 'unadopted' roads.

(BMcC/JM)