Police Warn Against Car Meet in Eastleigh

Hampshire police have issued a warning to car enthusiasts planning to attend a car meet in the Eastleigh district today (8 April) to act responsibly and legally. The police are aware of plans for the car meet and have seen similar events in neighbouring districts in recent months.

While most car enthusiasts are law-abiding, a minority have acted irresponsibly and illegally in previous car meets, including street racing, excessive noise, and dangerous driving that endangers spectators and the public. Hampshire police will not allow such behaviour to go unchallenged and have a robust policing plan in place to deal with any potential incidents.

The police will use available legislation to take action against any illegal behaviour, including seizing vehicles, issuing penalty notices, notifying insurance companies of illegal modifications, and making arrests and prosecutions where necessary. The police will also use mobile and static cameras as well as drones to capture evidence of any incidents that may occur.

Chief Inspector Tracy Scrase has emphasised that public safety is always the police’s priority, and they will take any action necessary to prevent dangerous driving and anti-social behaviour. She has warned individuals not to take the risk of driving dangerously, as they could face severe consequences, including seizure of their vehicles and arrest.

The police urge anyone with concerns or information on criminal activity to contact them on 101 or 999 in an emergency. Individuals can also upload footage of any moving traffic offenses via the Hants SNAP initiative to help the police deal with road traffic offenses.

The police would like to reassure the community that they are proactively monitoring information and working closely with partners and landowners. They remind event organisers that they must seek permission from landowners and the district or city council before organising any such event.

Overall, the police are committed to preventing dangerous driving and anti-social behaviour in car meets and ensuring public safety.