Tasman Police have cracked down on anti-social road users in a targeted operation that led to multiple impounded vehicles, over 100 infringement notices, and several criminal charges.

The operation, which ran from Wednesday 28 May to Sunday 1 June, was launched in response to a rise in community complaints about dangerous and disruptive driving.

Tasman District Road Policing Manager Acting Inspector Nathan Snell said the operation was carried out with support from Christchurch’s Anti-Social Road User team, who were deployed across Nelson Bays and Marlborough.

During the five-day operation, two search warrants were executed, resulting in the recovery of a stolen firearm and the impounding of three vehicles for sustained loss of traction and driver licence breaches.

More than 50 vehicles were inspected across the region and found to be unsafe or defective. Five additional vehicles were impounded for offences under the Land Transport Act.

Police also issued more than 100 infringement notices for a range of offences including speeding, seatbelt non-compliance, and driver distraction.

Charges have been laid against several individuals for unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, sustained loss of traction, driving while suspended or disqualified, and threatening behaviour.

Snell said further charges are being considered as investigations continue.