Police to hit M25 in lorry cabs as part of crackdown on law-breaking drivers

Operation Orbital, which began today (November 7), is a crackdown on motorists who are putting fellow drivers at risk as well as themselves.

This includes those driving while on their mobile and not wearing a seatbelt.

Read more: Police fire M25 protests warning as seven arrests made in Herts

The whole of the M25, which sees more than 7,500 vehicles travel round every hour, will be patrolled with the supercabs, including in Hertfordshire, for a period of two weeks.

The cabs, which are funded by National Highways, allow police officers to film evidence of unsafe driving behaviour by pulling up alongside vehicles, and drivers are then pulled over by police cars following a short distance behind. 

The cabs have derestricted speed limiters, which means they can travel at speeds up to the national speed limit, and have flashing lights for use in an emergency. 

An HGV driver pictured with a mobile phone in each hand while travelling on the M4 (Image: National Highways)

National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for roads policing, Chief Constable Jo Shiner, said: “We remain committed to tackling those who take unnecessary risks with their own safety and the safety of others on our roads by allowing themselves to be distracted while driving.  

“The consequences of these actions are often devastating. We will continue to work alongside National Highways on Operation Orbital and will take action against drivers who ignore the risks.” 

Read more: Lone woman mugged and hit on head in Cassiobury Park

The M25 in Bedmond (Image: Stephen Danzig)

A similar crackdown took place on the M25 in 2021 called Operation Tramline when 675 vehicles were stopped – but just eight of those in Hertfordshire.

Of those five were for using a mobile and/or not being in proper control, while two were for failing to wear a seatbelt.

Operation orbital will also see enforcement agencies including the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency and police carry out safety checks on vans and lorries for road worthiness, secure loads, weight, and drivers’ hours to help keep drivers on the motorway safe.  

National Highways’ south east regional safety programme manager Colin Evans said: “The two weeks of action will see enforcement agencies carrying out checks along the M25 to help improve safety for everyone.” 

Have you got a story for us? You can contact us here.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.

To receive breaking news alerts or newsletters sign up here.

Check out our Watford crime and court Facebook page here.