Police crack down on illegal vans in Newcastle

Half the number of motorists stopped by police in a two-day operation on Newcastle's roads were driving illegally, it has been revealed.

The operation saw 26 vehicles - mainly vans - stopped and all drivers asked to produce driving documents to ensure their legitimacy.

A total of 13 were issued with prohibition notices.

It means the vehicles cannot be used again until repairs are carried out.

One driver was also issued with a fixed penalty notice for an expired tax disc.

Targeting criminals

The notices will only be lifted once repairs are completed and the vehicle is presented to VOSA for checking.

Police said the operation was aimed at targeting criminals on the roads and in turn disrupting criminal activity in Benwell and Elswick, and across the city.

The Benwell and Elswick Neighbourhood Policing Team, Vehicle and Operator services Agency (VOSA), Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and the Environment Agency, as well as Newcastle City Council, were involved in the operation.

Police said during the operation they also received information and intelligence about crime and disorder in the community.