As part of our ongoing commitment to tackling drink and drug driving, officers carried out a road safety operation in Maldon on Saturday 27 December under Operation Limit. The initiative aims to keep Essex roads safe by targeting those who choose to drive under the influence.
Most drivers act responsibly, but we would advise others that driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is reckless and puts lives at risk. We will not tolerate it, and our officers will continue to take robust action to keep Essex roads safe.
During the operation more than 90 vehicles were stopped, with every driver subjected to both breath and drug tests. Three people were arrested for drug driving, reinforcing our zero-tolerance approach because driving under the influence of drink or drugs is never acceptable.
In addition to these arrests, officers identified 37 separate vehicle offences, including:
- Mobile phone use: 5
- Seatbelt offences: 9
- Failure to maintain proper control: 1
- Dangerous condition: 2
- Speeding: 2
- No insurance: 1
- Construction and Use offences: 8
- Tyre cord exposed: 1
- Defective number plates: 2
- Cracked windscreen glass: 3
- Illegal window tints removed: 2
One vehicle was prohibited from being driven due to having four bald tyres, two of which had ply and cords exposed – a serious risk to road safety. Tyres must have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.


Driving a vehicle that is safe and fit for the road is not just a legal requirement—it’s a critical responsibility for every driver as a roadworthy car significantly reduces the risk of collisions. Faulty vehicle parts can lead to catastrophic failures, putting you, your passengers, and other road users in danger.
These operations are a vital part of our strategy to protect lives and prevent tragedies on Essex roads. We will continue to take robust action against those who break the law.
We continue to ask the public to contact us if they suspect someone is unfit to drive through drink or drugs.
Information from https://essexpolicemedia.co.uk/