A dangerous taxi and a drugged driver were taken off the road in a police sweep of Holmfirth and other parts of the Holme Valley.
Eight police officers with assistance from Kirklees councillors toured the valley checking vehicles were taxed, insured and in a roadworthy condition as part of Operation Troutmere.
And two motorists fell foul of the law during Friday night’s joint operation with Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs and the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency.
One driver was arrested after officers discovered he had been driving under the influence or drugs and was carrying cannabis and cocaine.
And a private hire taxi driver had his licence suspended and his car towed away after police found dangerous parts on the vehicle.
The cabbie must repair his car and have it inspected by Kirklees licensing officers before he can continue to work.
Officers also issued repair notices to other motorists as well as parking fines.
Police also ‘dipped’ fuel tanks to check if motorists were illegally using untaxed ‘red’ diesel.
Operation leader PC Steven Nicholls said: “A large number of traffic offence reports and vehicle defect rectification notices were issued by West Yorkshire Police for drivers either committing offences or having vehicle defects.
“Officers also attended in the centre of Holmfirth to enforce the parking restrictions in the hackney rank that is intended for hackney carriages only between the hours of 8pm and 2am. Parking tickets were issued to any offenders incurring a £30 fee.”
PC Nicholls added: “This operation was a huge success and should send out a positive message to highlight we will enforce these regulated activities and prosecute offenders to ensure that the community can feel safe whilst using these business services and get home safe and well.
“The three councillors spent all night working with us and they were very helpful.”
Police also ran several test purchases in off-licences to check on the sale of alcohol to young people. All stores visited complied with the law.
