Police to seize cars playing loud music

Drivers who cruise the streets with loud music blaring risk losing more than their hearing. Police in Birmingham have pledged to confiscate their cars if they refuse to turn down the volume.

Operation United will target drivers of souped-up vehicles with high-output boom boxes who congregate in the Broad Street entertainment district of the city.



Acting Sgt Jake Flanagan, of West Midlands Police, said: "Where a vehicle is being driven in a careless or inconsiderate manner and is likely to cause harassment, distress or annoyance to anybody else, we have the power to seize that vehicle."

Peter Wakeham, of the Noise Abatement Society, said: "They are a thundering nuisance and serve no purpose other than to annoy other road users. I hope more police and local authorities follow suit."