Driver stopped for routine vehicle check on Wrexham Industrial Estate fails roadside drugs test

A van that was seen to be in poor condition led to the driver later being arrested on suspicion of drug driving during a road safety operation in Wrexham this week.

Checks were being carried out by officers from the Roads Policing Unit on Oak Road, Wrexham Industrial Estate on Tuesday 13th March, when they spotted a white transit van which was in poor condition.

The van was stopped and following checks the driver was found to have an expired provisional licence and had false number plates.

Police say the 21-year-old also failed the roadside drugs test and was arrested on suspicion of drug driving after testing positive for cannabis. He has since been released under investigation pending the results of further tests and has been issued with TORs (Traffic Offence Reports) for the other offences.

Checks were also carried out on vehicles being used by scrap metal collectors to ensure the drivers had the appropriate licences and paperwork.

One driver was stopped and discovered to be without his scrap metal collection licence and correct relevant paperwork. Officers seized his scrap metal load that was on the back of his vehicle and gave him an official warning. If the driver is caught again operating without a valid licence or documents he will be prosecuted.

Another driver was issued with a TOR for failing to wear a seatbelt as officers support a national seatbelt campaign this week.

Sergeant Steve Richards of the Roads Policing Unit said: “We are pleased to say that the majority of drivers and vehicles that we stopped were fully compliant with the law, which is always great news.

“However, what seemed to be a simple stop due to the poor condition of a vehicle turned out to be a great arrest as the driver had an expired provisional licence, was on false plates and failed the roadside drugs test.

“It is important that all vehicles are roadworthy and comply with the law. This is not just for the drivers’ safety but also for that of other road users.

“Road safety operations such as this are all part of our ongoing commitment to keeping the roads safe for all and we will continue to take action against those who commit offences on our roads.”