Crackdown on van thefts uncovers drug driving, insecure loads and a suspected stolen engine in Gainsborough

A suspected stolen engine, a positive drugs wipe, and insecure loads were just some of the offences uncovered during a day of action by Lincolnshire Police.

Officers from the Roads Policing Unit joined forces with HMRC and West Lindsey District Council (WLDC) as part of a crackdown on transit van thefts and related driving offences in the Gainsborough area.

They set up a set up a check site in Carr Lane on Wednesday (January 17).

HMRC was brought in to deal with any fuel and oil offences, and carried out fuel tanks dips to check for illegal use of red diesel.

WLDC assisted in checking waste and scrap licences.

All vehicles checked were found to have the correct or necessary documentation.

During the day police issued Traffic Offence Reports for insecure loads, overweight vehicles, and the vehicles being in a dangerous condition. Officers also carried out stop searches under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

One 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs.

Officers also arrested a 28-year-old man on suspicion of theft of motor vehicle following finding a suspected stolen engine in the vehicle he was driving.

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He has been released under investigation as the enquiries continue.

We will continue to target criminality in our communities, and ask for anyone with information which might help stop offences to get in touch via 101.