An Enforcement Blitz: Rochdale Police Crack Down on Road Offences in Operation Laser

Rochdale, June 26, 2025 – Rochdale Neighbourhood Police today announced some of the results of "Operation Laser", an intensive enforcement initiative aimed at improving road safety and ensuring vehicle compliance across the area. The operation yielded significant results on Thursday, June 26th, and saw officers issue a total of 12 Traffic Offence Reports (TORs) for various infringements.

The enforcement summary, reported by Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) Andrew Stewart, highlighted a range of offences, from vehicle maintenance issues to speeding and non-compliant number plates.

One notable incident involved a Transit van found with multiple defects, including a flat rear offside tyre, a poorly inflated front nearside tyre, and a faulty rear offside brake light. Officers issued a ticket specifically for the dangerous tyre condition.

Seven drivers were also issued tickets for using "Ghost plates" – number plates that do not conform to DVLA regulations, hindering identification and potentially being used to evade detection.

Speeding drivers were also a key focus of Operation Laser. Officers issued:

• Three tickets for drivers travelling at 38 mph in a 30 mph zone.
• One ticket for a driver recorded at 36 mph in a 30 mph zone.
• One driver was advised for exceeding the limit at 35 mph in a 30 mph zone.

In addition to traffic enforcement, police conducted proactive stop and search operations throughout the day. These included four vehicle registration checks and 12 personal stop searches, underscoring the force's commitment to disrupting wider criminal activity and ensuring public safety.

PCSO Andrew Stewart highlighted the importance of such operations in maintaining road safety standards and encouraging responsible driving within the Rochdale community. The total of 12 Traffic Offence Reports issued demonstrates the ongoing vigilance of local police in tackling driving and vehicle-related offences.