Riverina police issues charges over alleged fraudulent vehicle inspections

Riverina Highway Patrol Command officers commenced an investigation into fraudulently issued vehicle inspection reports.

On Wednesday, a 51-year-old man was arrested at an auto-centre in Wagga and charged with 10 counts of publishing false, misleading material to obtain advantage.

The man was granted conditional bail to appear in Wagga Local Court on May 19.

As part of ongoing investigations, with assistance from Transport for NSW, officers conducted a compliance operation at RMS pits in Wagga on Saturday.

During the operation, nine vehicles were examined and issued with labels and defects relating to non-compliance.

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Police issued 24 infringement notices and 13 defect notices for assorted breaches.

This included leaking brake components, homemade suspension components that weren't certified, and dangerous bulbar protrusions.

Acting Inspector Brett Collins from Riverina Highway Patrol said during the operation, investigators identified three fraudulently issued inspection reports.

"We are sending a strong message that if you are engaged with issuing fraudulent inspection reports, you can expect us to be paying a visit to your business and potentially laying criminal charges,"he said.

"This kind of behaviour creates significant risk in the community, when vehicles being used on public roads are not in fact roadworthy.

"Vehicles that don't meet standards are likely to be a contributing factor to collisions and fatalities."

Investigations are continuing.

Anyone with information about motor vehicle crime is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.

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