 The system checks a number plate database |
New technology is helping police to take 70 illegally-driven cars a month off roads in the South West. The Dorset, Avon & Somerset and Devon & Cornwall forces are using an Automatic Number Plate Recognition System to scan vehicle number plates.
Cameras fitted to patrol cars monitor number plates as vehicles pass.
The system then checks a database and reports whether the scanned car is untaxed, uninsured or has been involved in any crime.
Meanwhile, police in Plymouth have seized 163 cars in the city as part of the force's Operation Endurance campaign.
During January and February 2006, police used powers to seize any motor vehicle which was either being driven or parked on a road that was not covered by insurance, or driven by a person who did not hold a valid driving licence.
Sergeant Gary Rogers, of Charles Cross police station, said: "We see this as an opportunity to disrupt criminals in the city and officers have tried to concentrate on vehicles known to be used by persons active in crime."
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