This weekend saw another high-impact Operation Limit deployment in Essex, targeting high-risk driver behaviours across the Basildon district, as part of the Safer Essex Roads Partnership’s (SERP) commitment to Vision Zero – eliminating all road deaths and serious injuries by 2040.
Operation Limit, a SERP-funded policing initiative, focuses on tackling drink and drug driving, removing unsafe vehicles from the road, and delivering visible, proactive enforcement. The latest deployment, supported by Essex Police’s Roads Policing Unit and funded custody staff, resulted in 162 traffic offence reports, 22 vehicle seizures, and 19 arrests,16 of which were for drink or drug driving.
As part of the weekend’s operation, officers used TruCam technology to specifically target 30mph limits, resulting in 200 excess speed offences detected, an approach designed to reduce risk in more pedestrianised, residential areas. Officers also carried out eight stop and searches, submitted 18 intelligence reports, and issued a prohibition notice for a dangerously defective vehicle, additionally making one disqualified driver report for court.
Despite soaring temperatures over the weekend, officers were deployed throughout both districts, with enhanced visibility and a strong community presence. And the response from the public? Incredibly supportive, with many residents stopping to thank officers and offer refreshments- a small gesture, that meant a lot to the team on a hot weekend.
Adam Pipe, Head of Roads Policing at Essex Police, said: “Operation Limit continues to show the power of unpredictable visibility in enforcement. Drivers don’t know when or where we’ll appear- and that’s the point. Our presence on the roads isn’t about catching people out, it’s about protecting everyone who uses them. Through the SERP’s support and collaboration, we are removing those who pose the greatest risk from our communities and making Essex roads safer for all.”
What is Operation Limit?
Operation Limit is a road safety initiative in which Essex Police plays a proactive role. It targets drink and drug driving and broader road crime through:
- Targeted enforcement using stop and searches, TRUCAM speed enforcement, and high-visibility patrols.
- Vehicle seizures for uninsured or unsafe vehicles.
- Arrests and prosecutions for a wide range of driving and criminal offences.
- Community impact by reducing the number of dangerous drivers on Essex roads.
This operation exemplifies how partnership collaboration within the SERP ensures a joined-up, intelligence-led approach to saving lives on Essex roads.
For more information about the SERP and its ambition toward Vision Zero, visit:
www.saferessexroads.org/visionzero
