Police Begin Annual Push Against Drink & Drug Driving Over Christmas

A month-long operation targeting those who drive under the influence of alcohol and drugs has launched today.

The All Wales operation, which will take place throughout December, will see police forces across the country use intelligence-led tactics and local knowledge of hotspots to detect people who are driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol over the festive period.

During the 2015 Christmas campaign North Wales Police tested 8894 drivers, with 82 being positive, refused or failed.

Six people were also arrested for driving whilst under the influence of drugs.

Inspector Alun Davies from North Wales Police’ Roads Policing Unit said: “Once again our campaign will be heavily focussed around preventing drink or drug driving to stop those who are risking their lives and the lives of innocent road users.

“Officers from the Roads Policing Unit, Safer Neighbourhood Teams and the Special Constabulary will be working and anyone who is considering driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs should know that we will be out and about waiting for them.

“North Wales Police are fully committed to help make the roads safer for all and will continue to target those who endanger their own lives and the lives of others. Don’t drive under the influence of drink or drugs – even a very small amount of drugs or alcohol can affect your ability to drive safely. Don’t let your friends and family pay the price.”

In addition to targeted operations, officers will also be using social media to remind people that it is never worth taking the risk of driving while intoxicated under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Social media users can follow the campaign using the hashtag #Fatal5

So far this year (1st January to 18th November) North Wales Police have made 762 drink drive arrests and 328 drug drive arrests.

Inspector Davies added: “Officers are on heightened alert all year round but especially at this time of year – they will spot you, they will catch you and you will face the consequences. Drivers need to be aware that regardless of the time of day they are caught, whether they are going to work or taking children to school, they will face the same penalties as someone who has chosen to drink heavily in a pub and driven at night.”

If you suspect someone is driving while unfit to do so, please report it immediately to police on 101 (or 999 if they are posing imminent danger) or phone it through anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.