NANAIMO, B.C., —On Aug. 9, Nanaimo RCMP partnered with Comox Air Services Air 8 as part of an ongoing traffic enforcement initiative aimed at improving road safety. The initiative was the result of concerns raised by the public regarding dangerous driving behaviours, particularly among motorcyclists.
The aerial support provided officers on the ground with a valuable advantage. While frontline officers focused on identifying and investigating violations, Air 8 maintained an overview of traffic conditions and vehicle movements, enhancing both officer and public safety.
During the operation, officers observed 46 traffic violations, issued 33 charges under the Motor Vehicle Act (MVA), issued 8 warnings, served one 90-day Immediate Roadside Prohibition (IRP), and impounded four vehicles. Approximately one third of the violations were issued to motorcycle riders.
Enforcement results included:
- 10 charges for speeding under the (MVA)
- 5 charges for excessive speeding (MVA)
- 10 charges for no-insurance tickets (MVA)
- 14 other MVA charges for various violations, resulting in 10 tickets and 4 warnings.
- 7 Motor Vehicle Act Regulation violations, resulting in 4 tickets and 3 warnings.
- 1 impaired driver who received a 90-day Immediate Roadside Prohibition.
- 4 vehicle impoundments, including 2 charges for excessive speed and 2 for stunting-related offences.
One incident highlighted the effectiveness of aerial support. At approximately 9 p.m., an officer was preparing to stop a motorcyclist operating without a licence plate. Before the stop was initiated, the rider noticed Air 8 overhead and immediately pulled over to the side of the road. When the officer approached, the rider simply pointed toward the helicopter, recognizing that police had a clear view of his movements.
“Road safety continues to be a priority for the Nanaimo RCMP. This enforcement initiative was undertaken in response to concerns we have received from the public regarding dangerous driving behaviours on our roadways by motor vehicles and motorcyclist’s alike,” said Inspector Donovan Tait, Officer in Charge of the Nanaimo RCMP Detachment. “The addition of Air 8 provided officers with a valuable perspective that enhanced safety and allowed us to more effectively monitor traffic throughout the area. We will continue to work with our partners and use all available tools to promote safe driving and hold those who choose to put others at risk accountable.”
The Nanaimo RCMP thanks the public for their continued support and encourages anyone who witnesses dangerous driving behaviour to report it when it is safe to do so by calling the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.
