Results of a three-week operation targeting new, unlicensed and inexperienced drivers have disappointed Eastern Bay of Plenty police.
Sergeant Ray Wylie of the Eastern Bay of Plenty road policing group said these groups of drivers were overly represented in the number of "at fault" crashes.
Recent crash statistics highlight the increasing risk of drivers in these categories and in particular those who drive on a restricted driver's licence, or those who drive without a licence.
As a result of the police operation, 181 drivers were found to be in breach of their learner and restricted licences. A significant number of these were for restricted licence breaches and 49 drivers were driving without a licence and were forbidden to drive. The operation aimed to reduce the number of crashes to ensure all drivers comply with the conditions of their licence.
Legislation gives police greater powers to forbid a driver from driving, render the vehicle immobile and remove the keys from the driver until all conditions of the graduated licence are met.