Image Credit: Kamloops RCMP

By Adam Campbell

OPERATION E-BABY

Kamloops RCMP’s ‘Operation E-Baby’ yields 25 cellphone violations

Dec 13, 2023 | 2:19 PM

KAMLOOPS — It was called ‘Operation E-Baby’ — an initiative by the Kamloops RCMP aimed to halt distracted drivers across the city and encourage the safe operation of motor vehicles during the holidays.

The operation took place on a single day in late November at two downtown locations and consisted of an officer dressed in civilian clothing wearing a baby carrier and catching drivers using their cellphones.

As a result, 25 cellphone use violation tickets were issued, along with other infractions.

Cpl. Wayne Chung of the Kamloops RCMP Municipal Traffic Unit mentioned most of the individuals caught were texting or using social media — many of whom were so distracted they didn’t notice the officer walking up to them, or even slowly inched forward towards the intersection while on their devices.

“The volume of people using cellphones is crazy – you just have to put them away. If you can’t police yourself, we will police you,” said Cpl. Chung.

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Although officers are constantly on the lookout for offenders, checks increase during the holidays to capitalize on impaired or distracted drivers.

During the first Saturday of December, the RCMP Municipal Traffic Unit issued eight 90-day driving prohibitions and 30-day vehicle impounds for impaired driving, with two three-day prohibitions and one 24-hour prohibition, also for driving under the influence.

“There’s absolutely no excuse to drive impaired in today’s society and the consequences are swift and immediate,” added Cpl. Chung.

For more information and safety tips for the season, click here.