Launch of Operation Octane

Car meets have always been a popular way for those with a shared interest to socialise and view each other’s vehicles. Whilst many who attend these events behave in a safe and considerate way there has been a steady rise in incidents related to car meets. 

They can involve in excess of 300 cars and over 500 people which poses a significant risk to road safety and the wider community. Vehicles will often drive around neighbourhoods, congregating in car parks and shopping districts. Actions of some drivers, such as speeding, performing ‘doughnuts’ and inappropriate parking can cause serious disruption in the local area. 

Today (9 October 2023) Norfolk Police are launching a dynamic new approach to tackling vehicle related anti-social behaviour. 

This operation will work in partnership with Norfolk County Council, local district councils and National Highways to provide a cohesive approach to improving and maintaining community safety.

Operation Octane has been developed to encourage positive engagement between officers and those attending car meets to engage, offer education and where appropriate; prosecution for those choosing to commit offences. 

An escalation model has been implemented where initial warning letters may be issued following a first incident. Further incidents can result in Community Protection Warnings and Community Protection Notices. It can then lead to Community Behaviour Orders or injunctions, which if breached can lead to arrests.

291 warning letters have been sent so far this year, with 22 follow up letters and 16 Community Protection Warnings. Two Community Protection Notices have also been issued in 2023.

Details of those who are offending may also be passed onto their insurers which will affect their premiums and may lead to policy refusal.

Inspector Will Drummond, from the Roads and Armed Policing Team said: “Our focus isn’t and never will be genuine car enthusiasts. This operation directly targets those who are a threat to the safety of their local community.

“These individuals make up a very small percentage of those who attend car meets but the disruption they cause is felt by many.

“Taking risks behind the wheel will not be tolerated in Norfolk. Operation Octane will work to prosecute those who drive to a poor standard in our county and prevent them from interrupting organised car meets.”