Operation Topaz continues to tackle criminality on our roads
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Operation Topaz is a national campaign that was launched just over a week ago to tackle criminality on our road networks.
This work being carried out aims to enhance our day-to-day road-safety focus on the Fatal Four offences of speeding, drink or drug driving, not wearing a seatbelt and driver mobile phone use.
The focus over the last week was on the A13 and A127 corridor and key hotspots like Grays town centre and Festival Leisure Park, Basildon.
Recent action was supported by our four-legged friends in the Dog Section, along with their handlers of course, and the Operational Support Group officers.
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The results included:
2 x Stolen Vehicles Recovered
A Ford Fiesta was swiftly recovered within 30 minutes of being reported stolen in Canvey Island
Two suspects were arrested thanks to a number of policing teams working together and sharing intelligence – this included Topaz units and our Dog Section
Another vehicle linked to the offenders was also located and seized.
1 x arrest for a serious road traffic collision
An arrest was made following a collision where a woman suffered a broken leg and other injuries. The team worked closely with the Metropolitan Police.
5 x arrests for drug driving offences
1 x arrest for actual bodily harm – wanted by the Metropolitan Police for domestic assault
1 x arrest for malicious communications
1 x domestic abuse suspect arrested
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Total Results:
• 14 Arrests
• 31 Traffic offence reports – including not wearing a seatbelt and using a phone whilst driving
• 9 Vehicle seizures - Including a stolen HGV intercepted by officers – this was linked to a ‘liquidated’ company still operating under the radar.
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Essex Police’s Inspector Carl Habbershaw, who leads Operation Topaz, previously said:
The focus is clear: we’re working to reduce harm, disrupt criminality, and improve safety in our communities.
The operation has certainly made a good start to achieving this, a huge well done to all involved – a strong show of presence and swift justice on our roads!
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