A lorry driver received a nasty surprise after being spotted not once, but twice, using his mobile phone while driving by police officers operating from a hidden, unmarked vehicle. The dangerous driver was completely unaware he was being monitored during a targeted police operation in the Midlands.
Covert Police Operation on Key Routes
Officers from Nottinghamshire Police's Roads Policing Unit conducted the operation by travelling along the A38 and other major routes, including the A60 and M1, in an unmarked lorry cab. This tactic is specifically designed to allow police a clear view into vehicles, catching drivers who believe they are not being observed.
Driver Spotted Twice in Quick Succession
The lorry driver was first observed breaking the law on the A38 in Nottinghamshire on January 29. Initially, he managed to evade immediate action as officers were unable to locate him following the first sighting. However, his luck ran out shortly afterwards when he was spotted again leaving Castlewood Business Park, still holding his phone to his ear.
Significant Number of Offences Recorded
During the operation, police issued a total of 32 tickets for mobile phone offences. Additionally, a further 23 motorists were ticketed for not wearing seatbelts, highlighting the range of dangerous behaviours being targeted.
Police Warning on Grave Consequences
Sergeant Jim Carrington of Nottinghamshire Police's Roads Policing Unit issued a stern warning to drivers. He emphasised that using a handheld mobile phone at the wheel significantly increases the risk of being involved in a collision. Sergeant Carrington stated, "It may not seem like a big deal to some of the people we pull over, but it really is."
He added, "On a personal level, I have attended the scenes of multiple fatal and serious injury collisions where mobile phone use was a contributing factor, so I know only too well the potential consequences of that brief phone call, text message or map adjustment."
Financial and Professional Penalties
Drivers should be acutely aware that this offence now carries a £200 fine and six penalty points. Sergeant Carrington noted that these penalties can have huge personal and professional consequences, particularly for those who rely on their driving licence for employment.
Continued Enforcement Promised
Expressing concern over persistent risky behaviour, Sergeant Carrington confirmed that police will continue to carry out this type of covert operation in the future. He urged all drivers to ensure their phone is either put away during journeys or appropriately mounted and connected to a hands‑free system.
The operation serves as a clear reminder that despite awareness campaigns, too many motorists are still taking dangerous risks on the roads, and police are adapting their methods to catch them in the act.
