The latest batch of untaxed vehicles has been taken off the streets as part of an ongoing crackdown across Middlesbrough.
A further 16 illegal, untaxed and potentially dangerous vehicles were seized during the two-day operation in the town’s Newport ward.
Middlesbrough Council’s Environmental Neighbourhood Safety Team were joined by counterparts from Cleveland Police and DVLA to tackle the issue in response concerns raised by local residents.
The multi-agency operation also saw the DVLA’s ANPR vehicle detect 72 untaxed vehicles while in the area.
Untaxed – and therefore uninsured – vehicles will be towed away, with the their owners facing possible prosecution and an unlimited fine, a potential driving ban, higher insurance premiums and penalty points on their licence.
Seized vehicles incur a £100 release fee, which increases to £200 if the owner does not come forward within 24 hours, as well as a daily storage charge of £21 per day.
If the vehicle does not have a valid MOT, a surety fee of £160 is also payable, although the fee can be reclaimed if proof of vehicle tax is provided within 15 days.
Councillor Janet Thompson, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive member for Community Safety, said: “Untaxed vehicles can blight communities, pose a danger to the public and all too often have links to organised crime.
“Congratulations to everyone involved in yet another successful and high-profile operation – with the continued support of the public we will use all means at our disposal to stamp out antisocial behaviour in all its forms.”
Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Sergeant Steve Pattison said: “Working alongside Middlesbrough Council and other agencies, we will continue to remove untaxed and potentially dangerous vehicles from our roads as we ensure that people abide by the laws which are there to help keep them safe.
“Uninsured vehicles are sometimes used in wider criminal activity and removing them from our roads can help us to protect our communities.”
To report illegal vehicles or any crime, call Cleveland Police on 101, or Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111, or visit the Crimestoppers website.