Ottawa police have unveiled a new way to crack down on drivers using handheld devices behind the wheel.

Since Monday, officers dressed in civilian clothes have been standing watch at intersections across the city.

Once a driver using a handheld device is spotted, the officer passes on the vehicle's description to uniformed officers who pull the driver over and issue a ticket.

Police have issued more than 70 tickets for Highway Traffic Act infractions since the campaign started. The fine for the infraction is $155.