Two people have been arrested amid a police clampdown on nuisance drivers.

Officers say they attended both the Greenhithe and Swale areas yesterday evening following reports of motorists congregating in large numbers.

Police said: “Dedicated patrols were deployed across the county from 5pm on Friday, in response of groups of motorists speeding, endangering other road users and causing excessive noise.”

Five vehicles were found to be either uninsured or untaxed and subsequently seized.

A total of 19 people were reported for a range of traffic offences including speeding and failing to wear a seatbelt and two were also arrested on suspicion of driving whilst under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

Similarly, three drivers were asked to leave the area and five were required to complete repairs to their cars within a specified time.

Several areas that have suffered persistent reports of nuisance vehicles are currently subject to dispersal orders. These give officers additional powers to direct those responsible to leave the area and risk arrest if they return.

“Dispersal orders in some parts Kent are continuing into Sunday and any car owners who choose to meet in large groups and cause a persistent nuisance, risk receiving traffic offence reports, having their cars seized and in some cases being arrested...”

Supt Nick Sparkes said this enforcement was completed in response to numerous concerns raised by residents, whose quality of life is affected by large groups of motorists causing excessive noise and endangering other road users.

He added: “Dispersal orders in some parts of Kent are continuing into Sunday and any car owners who choose to meet in large groups and cause a persistent nuisance, risk receiving traffic offence reports, having their cars seized and in some cases being arrested.”

Anybody who wishes to report instances of anti-social behaviour should contact us online via the police’s website. If a crime is in progress, they should call 999.