A NUMBER of vehicles have been taken off the roads in Gwent, after a massive police operation cracked down on unsafe and illegal activity.

Earlier this month, a multi-agency operation titled Operation Utah was carried out in Abergavenny, as part of Gwent Police’s efforts to crack down on motoring offences in the area.

In total, 42 vehicles were stopped and inspected on Wednesday, September 8, as part of the operation.

Of these, four vehicles were seized, as they had no insurance or tax.

A further 24 roadworthiness prohibitions were issued, where vehicles have been or will be taken off the road.

In total, 12 vehicles were immediately taken off the road.

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Two people were reported for driving without tax, and 10 notices were issued for drivers to rectify vehicle defects.

What’s more, 19 traffic offences were recorded.

These ranged from mobile phone use, to invalid MOT, and insecure loads.

Four taxis were dealt with for licence breaches, and finally, five parking tickets were issued by the local council.

Along with Gwent Police’s local neighbourhood officers, roads policing unit and dog section, the operation was carried out by the Driver and Vehicle Standard Agency (DVSA) and Monmouthshire County Council.

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What has been said about the operation?

Following the day of action, PC Elliot Morgan said: "Those who choose to break the law on our roads, driving vehicles that aren’t roadworthy, not only put themselves at risk but other road users too.

“Focused operations such as this see significant results in increasing safety. In this instance, 12 vehicles, which were not safe to drive, were immediately taken off the road.

“Driving irresponsibly, or not maintaining the condition of your vehicle, is not acceptable and, together with our partners, we will continue to target those who break the law in this way.”

Anyone who is concerned about unroadworthy vehicles or vehicles being driven illegally can call police on 101 or by contacting them via social media.