Police crackdown on dodgy tow truck drivers
On 11 September, the Western Australia Police Force commenced ‘Operation City’ targeting any unlawful activity of the tow-truck industry in Perth.
During the two-week enforcement phase of this operation, police worked closely with the
Department of Transport and Main Roads, engaging with around 200 tow truck drivers from 37 different companies.
Police seized and impounded seven tow trucks and charged 17 persons with a total of 26 offences. These charges include: No authority to drive, Possess a prohibited drug, Reckless/Dangerous Driving, Various other driving and drug related offences.
Additionally, the WA Police Force, Department of Transport and Main Roads utilised several other enforcement tools, which can be summarised as follows: 35 traffic infringement notices issued, 36 work order/defect notices issued, 18 drivers provided positive drug tests, 38 cautions issued.
During this operation, it was ascertained several drivers had links to Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs.
“This was a hugely successful operation for the WA Police Force – as it put the tow-truck industry on notice,” State Traffic Superintendent Mike Peters said.
“Some tow-truck drivers have previously shown a total disregard for road traffic legislation and this operation has shown that the WA Police Force, and our partners in Department of Transport and Main Roads, will not tolerate unlawful, or non-compliant behaviour.
“When members of our community are put at risk, by the dangerous driving behaviour of tow-truck drivers – we will act swiftly and with great resolve, to ensure members of this industry are held responsible.”
Bentley Hit and Run
Investigators from Traffic Enforcement Group South are calling for information about a crash in Bentley on Tuesday October 24.
At about 5:50am, a cyclist travelling west on Manning Road was struck by a white Toyota Camry travelling east near the intersection of Centenary Avenue.
The rider of the bike was taken to hospital for treatment.
The Camry driver fled the scene and is believed to be unharmed.
Anyone who witnessed the crash, or may be able to assist is asked to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000, or report online at crimestopperswa.com.au.
Road rage fight breaks out on Armadale Road
Armadale Police are investigating an incident of road rage on Armadale Road on 17 October.
Around 6:30am, two men were travelling in separate vehicles on Armadale Road near Anstey Road.
When traffic came to a stop, both men exited their vehicles and began fighting.
A number of community members intervened and separated the two men.
The drivers eventually re-entered their vehicles and left the scene.
Their vehicles are described as a white Mitsubishi Canter truck and a black Ford Falcon utility.
Police wish to speak with any of the community members who intervened, or may have witnessed this incident.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at crimestopperswa.com.au.
