Operation Spoiler results in 16 arrests, 37 vehicles seized

The Police, Ministry of Justice and Land Transport New Zealand staff combined forces again in Auckland City and Counties Manukau over the weekend to overtly target illegally modified vehicles, drunk driving and fines defaulters.

Operation Spoiler II in Auckland City and Operation Speed in Counties Manukau ran on both Friday and Saturday nights covering the from the Harbour Bridge to the Bombay Hills.

Police issued 450 infringement notices for offences of noisy vehicles, speed, failing to wear safety belts and driver's license breaches.

There were 16 people arrested for a variety of crimes including Assault on a female, driving while disqualified, disorderly behavior, driving while disqualified and bail breaches while 82 people were processed for driving with excess breath alcohol. 44 unsafe vehicles were ordered off the road.

10 vehicles were impounded for offences against Illegal Street Racing Legislation.

The Ministry of Justice collections staff seized 37 vehicles where owners owed a little over $185,000 in fines while others together paid a total of $12,215 on the spot.

Land Transport New Zealand inspectors examined numerous vehicles and ordered them from the road for illegal modifications to suspension, brakes and exhaust components.

Police view these joint operations as a great success and an effective tool to target unsafe vehicles and drivers. More of these operations are planned.