"Illegal street racing operation, Western Bay of Plenty"

Attribute to Sergeant Scott Merritt

A Western Bay of Plenty Police operation targeting illegal street racing and anti-social driver behaviour was carried out this weekend.

It followed community concern around illegal street racing activity in several communities in the area.

The operation took place on Saturday night and Sunday morning between the hours of 9pm and 4am and involved staff from the Bay of Plenty, Waikato and a NZTA vehicle inspector.

Police witnessed vehicles travelling at speeds of up to 150 kilometres per hour on the Tauranga Eastern Link and congregating at Old Coach Road doing burnouts and engaging in other anti-social behaviour.

Checkpoints were put in place around the Pongawaka area.

Sergeant Scott Merritt says this type of behaviour is incredibly disappointing.

“This type of high risk behaviour puts the drivers and other road users in significant danger.”

Among those charged was a 17-year-old for doing a wheelie on Marine Parade.

"This isn’t a case of young people having fun, they are a danger to themselves and others.”

“We want to assure the community that we take their concerns and road safety very seriously.” He says.

Enquiries are ongoing to locate further vehicles identified committing illegal street racing offences.

Summary

12 vehicles impounded

2 drivers charged with illegal street racing

7 drivers charged with sustained loss of traction

3 drivers charged with operating a vehicle exhibiting unnecessary speed or acceleration

2 drivers charged with excess breath alcohol

1 driver charged with driving while suspended

43 infringement notices issued for speeding, driver licence breaches and vehicle defects

12 vehicles green stickered

ENDS

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