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Police catch 160 offenders in latest undercover lorry operation

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Suffolk Police detected more than 160 offences and stopped 155 vehicles during a five-day operation using an undercover HGV to catch unsafe drivers.

Why it matters: The latest operation revealed significant numbers of drivers risking lives on Suffolk's major roads, with nearly 50 not wearing seatbelts and 36 using mobile phones while driving.

By the numbers:

  • 155 vehicles stopped, including 55 HGVs

  • 169 offences detected

  • 139 Traffic Offence Reports issued

  • One arrest for suspected drug-driving

  • £300 in fixed penalty fines

A HGV "supercab" provided to police by National Highways
A HGV "supercab" provided to police by National HighwaysNational Highways

The details: The initiative, Operation Tramline, ran from Monday, 27 January to Friday, 31 January, across the A14, A12 and A11. National Highways provided police with an HGV tractor unit, giving officers an elevated position to spot offending drivers.

Key offences included:

  • 49 not wearing seatbelts

  • 36 using mobile phones

  • 26 roadworthiness offences

  • 16 insecure loads

  • 10 not in proper control

What they're saying: PC Terry Harvey, of the Commercial Vehicle Unit, said: "This was yet another productive week of action where the number of offences detected speaks for itself."

"Among the 36 people caught using a mobile phone, one of them thought it would be funny to film us whilst he was driving at 70mph - until he realised who we were," he added.

The other side: Tim Passmore, Suffolk's Police and Crime Commissioner, said: "I'm absolutely staggered by the mindless stupidity of so many drivers risking their own lives, and the lives of others with their unacceptable behaviour behind the wheel."

The bottom line: The operation highlighted ongoing safety concerns on Suffolk's roads, with drivers continuing to commit serious offences despite risks to life.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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