Surrey Police’s Project Rogue Racers targets illegal street racing, issuing 100 tickets, impounding vehicles, and curbing high-speed stunts in key hotspots.
High-Speed Racing Draws Police Action
Surrey Police Service (SPS) has intensified efforts to combat illegal street racing, following ongoing public complaints. On Friday, June 6, their targeted enforcement campaign—Project Rogue Racers—resulted in nearly 100 violation tickets issued in just one night. The campaign is focused on curbing unsanctioned street racing and stunting events that have surged in parts of South Surrey.
Hotspots of Concern Identified
The enforcement took place at two major street racing hotspots. The first, the 2800-block of 192 Street, saw over 300 spectators and dozens of modified vehicles. Later that night, officers moved to Port Kells, a neighbourhood bordering Langley, where they encountered roughly 200 more spectators and 40 racers. These areas have become notorious gathering points for weekend races.
Major Violations and Consequences
Police issued a variety of penalties over the night, including nearly 100 traffic violation tickets, five vehicle impoundments for offences such as excessive speeding and stunting, and two Immediate Roadside Suspensions for impaired driving. Among the most alarming incidents were two vehicles clocked at 167 km/h and 171 km/h in a 60 km/h zone—both were immediately impounded for seven days, and the drivers fined $483 each.
Public Safety at Risk
Staff Sergeant Lindsey Houghton emphasized the severe risks these events pose: “Illegal street racing and stunting is extremely dangerous and puts drivers, spectators, and other motorists at significant risk of injury,” he stated. He urged racers to consider legal alternatives, such as designated race tracks, which cost significantly less than the fines and long-term consequences of dangerous driving.
Fines, Penalties, and Legal Implications
Street racers face stiff penalties under current traffic laws. Speeding tickets range from $138 to $196, while excessive speeding incurs fines from $368 to $483 and three demerit points. Stunting can lead to vehicle impoundment and similar fines. Additional costs, including towing and storage, make illegal racing a costly and dangerous choice.
Ongoing Enforcement Planned
Project Rogue Racers will continue throughout the year, with SPS promising more weekend crackdowns in key areas. The campaign reflects a broader push to ensure public safety and respond to increasing concerns from Surrey residents and businesses about reckless, high-speed driving in their communities.