More than 40 motorists have been fined, and three charged, during a multi-agency operation targeting dangerous driving and disruptive behaviours in Sydney's south at the weekend.
Between 4.30pm and 11.45pm (Saturday 4 March 2023), police along with Transport for NSW (TfNSW) and the Environmental Protections Authority (EPA) conducted Operation Engage at the Botany Bay Foreshore, targeting anti-social and dangerous driving, traffic violations, defective vehicles and drink and drug driving
During the operation, officers issued 43 infringement notices for use modified vehicle on road without compliance certificate, light vehicle Defective vehicles infringements, not comply with standard (other) and speeding.
Of the 60 random breath tests and 25 random drug tests conducted, one returned a positive reading to alcohol whilst two people returned a positive drug test.
TfNSW inspected 21 vehicles, detecting 21 defects. EPA inspected 14 vehicles, with 11 defects detected.
Incidents of note include:
- A 41-year-old man was allegedly detected travelling along Princes Street, Brighton Le Sands about 4.30pm. Subsequent checks revealed the man was disqualified from driving. He was arrested and taken to Kogarah Police Station, where he was charged with drive motor vehicle during disqualification period. He is due to appear at Sutherland Local Court on Tuesday 28 March 2023.
- A 26-year-old man was charged with driver state false name or home address, unlawfully possess driver licence, and drive motor vehicle during disqualification period after he was stopped on Riverside Drive, Sans Souci about 10.30pm. He is due to appear in Sutherland Local Court on Tuesday 2 May 2023.
- About 6.30pm, a Nissan Navara travelling on Russell Avenue, Sans Souci was stopped for a random breath test. The driver, a 29-year-old man who holds a P2 provisional license, allegedly returned a positive result and was arrested and taken to Kogarah Police Station for a breath analysis test. He allegedly returned a result of 0.015. He was charged with drive motor vehicle during disqualification period, novice Range PCA. He is to appear in Sutherland Local Court on Tuesday 28 March 2023. He was also issued an infringement notice for speeding.
Superintendent Rohan Cramsie, St George Police Area Command, said although he wants people to enjoy their vehicles, there are some things police won't tolerate.
"We won't tolerate people who put their own safety, the safety of others, and the safety of the community at risk," Superintendent Cramsie said.
