Dozens of distracted drivers have been captured on camera breaking the law after Kent Police went on patrol in an unmarked lorry.

As part of a five-day crackdown, 31 motorists were caught using their mobile phones at the wheel, six were speeding and two were travelling in the wrong lane.

They were nabbed by officers using a specially-developed plain cab from Highways England.

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The vehicle, which was fitted with police lights and a "derestricted speed limiter", patrolled Kent's motorways in search of rogue lorry drivers.

Sergeant Grant Steele, from Kent Police’s Roads Policing Unit, said: "This unmarked lorry cab, provided by Highways England, is one example of the innovative ways we seek to keep our roads safe.

"We are committed to protecting and serving road users in Kent and our patrols will continue to take action against those placing others in unnecessary danger.

"Nearly 15 years after mobile phone legislation came into force, it is extremely disappointing to see drivers continuing to break the law – especially those who drive as a profession.

"Driving while distracted by a mobile phone is one of the four most common causes of a fatal injury - it is not acceptable.

"Choosing to ignore the law means you are deciding that your phone call, text message, is more important than someone else’s life."

WATCH: Crackdown on 'distracted lorry drivers'

Offences were dealt with through a graduated fixed penalty notice or traffic offence report.

This means an investigation will be launched before a decision is made on how to deal with the alleged crime.

Safety coordinator in the South East for Highways England, Colin Evans, said: "Safety is our top priority and I am pleased that our HGV cab has been so useful in helping the police in Kent to identify unsafe behaviour on the motorways and major A roads.

"It provides an ideal viewing platform for police officers to identify dangerous behaviour that can be difficult to spot from standard police patrol vehicles."

He added Highways England is committed to working with police to improve road safety.