A MAJOR clampdown on the 6,000 road tax cheats in Gwent is under way.

The nationwide Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) operation is being held in two stages: a publicity campaign followed by an operational phase.

Vehicles found without a valid tax disc will be clamped and could be impounded and crushed by the DVLA.

The publicity phase, launched in Cardiff on Tuesday is encouraging motorists to ensure their vehicles are properly licensed.

The operational phase in Gwent will start on Monday and will continue for two weeks.

During the operation, officers will carry out roadside checkpoints and support the DVLA's activity in catching people committing motoring offences.

The DVLA's mobile clamping units will also be covering the entire force area on the look out for anyone not displaying a valid tax disc or committing any other traffic offences.

Inspector Steve Corcoran, from the Gwent Police road policing unit said: "Because there are strong links between untaxed vehicles, road safety offences and crime, this operation is a good opportunity to get criminals off the roads of Gwent.

"The DVLA estimates there are currently 6,000 unlicensed vehicles in Gwent, the owners of which could be putting other road users at risk as well as avoiding a tax that law-abiding citizens pay.

"I would urge owners of such vehicles to make them legal or they could be taken away from them"

The DVLA has launched a new hotline number - 08000 325 202 - for people who want to report vehicles with out of date tax discs.