OVER the weekend, officers from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District conducted a proactive operation targeting unregistered trail bikes on roads and road-related areas within the district.

Operation Tea ran last weekend in areas including Rutherford, Telarah, Woodberry, Chisholm and Raymond Terrace and Medowie.

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The operation was assisted by officers from the Newcastle City Police District and Hunter Valley Police District, and involved various specialist teams including trail bike operatives, the Proactive Crime Team, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, and the Crime Prevention Unit.

During the operation, fifteen Traffic Infringement Notices (TIN) were issued, and three people were charged with six offences.

One motorist had their licence suspended and another was issued a Court Attendance Notice for driving whilst their licence was disqualified.

Three people were issued infringement notices by Hunter Water for trespassing on Hunter Water land.

Police conducted fifteen roadside breath tests, with one returning a positive indication for the presence of alcohol.

Further, two stolen motor vehicles and one motorbike were also seized and will undergo further examination.

Port Stephens – Hunter Police District Commander, Superintendent Chad Gillies, said that the community can expect these operations to continue in future.

“Riding unregistered trail bikes, especially in a reckless manner, is a serious offence and puts the rider and community at risk.

“When riders are detected breaking the law, police will take appropriate action by issuing infringements, charges, suspending licences and seizing bikes,” Superintendent Gillies said.

By Tara CAMPBELL