
Yesterday, officers from the Heywood Neighbourhood Policing Team executed a comprehensive Traffic Enforcement Operation under the banner of Op Paragon.
This initiative was launched in response to increasing concerns about anti-social driving in the area and aimed to ensure that taxis and PHVs were compliant with licensing legislation and roadworthiness standards.
The operation was a collaborative effort involving partners from the Council Taxi Licensing Branch, the DVLA, GMP Traffic Department, and officers from the Tutor Unit at Rochdale Police Station.
A static site was established for vehicle stops, resulting in over 60 vehicles being checked for a range of offences, including those categorized under the Fatal Five: Speeding, Drink and Drug Driving, Not Wearing a Seatbelt, Using a Mobile Phone, and Careless Driving.
PCSO Stewart, who planned the operation, emphasized the importance of responsible driving, stating;
“Poor standards of driving and lack of responsibility as drivers is leading to injuries and unnecessary accidents. We will not allow the law to be broken which endangers the safety of local residents in our community.
“What sometimes seems like a minor thing can have serious consequences, and we ask all those in Heywood to abide by the road traffic laws at all times for the benefit of everyone"
Operation Outcomes:
TAXI LICENSING:
• 13 taxis stopped.
• 1 licence suspended due to expired badges.
• Multiple taxi /PHV drivers advised about not wearing identification.
POLICE:
• 5 document checks conducted.
• Advice given regarding documents and driving for 2 vehicles.
• 1 window tint offence rectified at the stop site.
• 1 drug search conducted.
• 2 drink drive breath tests administered.Traffic Offence Reports issued for headlight defect and no MOT.
• 4 no seatbelt offences.
• 2 use of mobile phone offences
• 2 vehicles prosecuted for Failing to Stop for Police
DVLA:
• 12 vehicles stopped for non-compliance with regulations, resulting in fines.
• 9 misrep forms completed.
• 3 ghost plate offences identified.
This operation underscores the commitment of the Heywood Neighbourhood Policing Team and its partners to maintaining road safety and compliance with traffic laws. The collaborative efforts aim to foster a safer community for all residents.

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