Dodgy driving gets crackdown in Staffordshire overnight - from stalking suspects in 'stolen vehicles' to van doors being strapped shut
Staffordshire Police's Road Crime Team saw some wild scenes on the roads last night in their latest crackdown on driving offences.
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The unit have seen more than their fair share of dodgy driving on the roads around the M6 and Stafford over the years - with last night (June 9) being no different.
Officers regularly post updates to their social media accounts, documenting the progress of Operation Lightening - which includes tackling everything from stolen vehicles to drink driving offences.
Today, the Express & Star has taken a look at some of the weirdest events from Staffordshire roads in the last 24 hours.
'Stalker' caught in stolen vehicle
Staffordshire Police also arrested a suspected stalker last night after chasing down a car thief with the assistance of a dog unit.
In a post on X, StaffsRCT wrote: "The driver of this car reported stolen tried to evade #Team3RCT.
"The team with assistance from @staffsdogs got it stopped where the driver was arrested for numerous driving offences as well as stalking He has since been remanded into custody for sentencing."
A van barely clinging to life
Staffordshire Police officers were left baffled last night after spotting a transit van travelling along the M6, near Stafford, in a state of disrepair last night.
The vehicle reportedly had faulty breaks and van doors being held shut with just a strap.
The "driver was reported and the van prohibited from moving until recovered", according to Staffs RCT.
Driving on a flat
Officers also responded to reports of a vehicle travelling northbound on the M6 with a flat tire.
In a post on X, the police said: " Several calls ref this travelled at excess speed M6 North this morning. Calls related to the flat tyre!
"Driver was aware, however, continued to drive for miles looking for a tyre garage spare tyre fitted & vehicle defect notice issued."
'Stolen vehicle' recovered with a robot
Police have recovered a suspected stolen car after it was abandoned in 'tight' parking spot in Burntwood.
Officers used a robot recovery vehicle to remove the car, which has been transferred to the forensic team for analysis.
The actions taken last night were part of Operation Lightning - a dedicated operation focusing on road safety, helping to make Staffordshire's roads safer.
It aims to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on the roads and to disrupt and deter criminals from using the road network.
