Motorists warned as roads police continue lockdown checks

Inspector Jason Booth, from South Yorkshire Police’s roads policing group, said: “Unfortunately, a small minority are using the current situation as a way to exploit the law.

“This is a reminder to criminals, with fewer cars on the road, there is a much higher chance of you being caught.”

On Friday, the team seized seven cars for having no insurance. A Ford Transit minibus and a Honda Accord — both of which had been stolen — were recovered.

The next day, four more uninsured vehicles were seized, while one car was recovered after being stolen in a burglary the night before and a BMW which failed to stop collided with bushes in Doncaster.

There were two more fail to stops on Sunday.

Insp Booth said: “My officers are working hard in what are already challenging circumstances.

“The team is passionate about ensuring road safety and stopping those who use the road network to commit crimes.

“Last year we seized over 1,000 cars for having no insurance. Those willing to drive without insurance are often drivers who are willing to commit more serious crimes and pose a risk to our communities.”

Officers are continuing checkpoint work across the county and ask drivers to consider if their journeys are necessary.

A force spokeswoman added: “If you are asked to stop and speak to drivers, please be truthful, we are there to assist and guide you.”