Police catch trucks in Zeebrugge

Together with a number of local police services, customs, inspection services and the European Labor Authority, the road police and judicial police check drivers’ rest times. In total, more than 90 agents and controllers participate in the action. The checks started at 8.30 am and last until 1 pm.

During the inspection, the typical aspects are checked, such as the tachograph and the vehicle documents, but attention is also paid to social legislation. The police also check for signs of social fraud, human trafficking and the living conditions of the drivers. She also pays attention to so-called ‘red diesel’, red-colored fuel oil that is cheaper but prohibited for cars and trucks.

“So far we have already identified 31 violations of the weekend rest. In addition, there have already been six violations of the return obligation and six violations of the tachograph,” says Kurt Garrez of the road police. During the check, all 239 trucks in the parking lot are checked.

“There was also a Moldovan driver with a false driver’s certificate,” says Garrez. The fine for not respecting the weekend rest is 1,800 euros. The fine can be up to 2,750 euros per truck. During the check, all 239 trucks in the parking lot are checked.

It is no coincidence that the promotion takes place during an extended weekend. “Most of the trucks arrived here on Friday and are still here on Monday. This is not allowed under European legislation. They have clearly been here for more than 45 hours, which makes it easier to check,” said Garrez.