308 Arrests For Drink And Drug Driving In December 2022

The PSNI arrested 308 people on suspicion of drink or drug driving between 1st December 2022 and 1st Jan 2023, nine more than during the same period last year, according to preliminary figures released today (25 January).

Commenting on the figures, Superintendent Gary Busch said: "When we launched our winter drink and drug drive operation, we warned drivers not to take any risks by drinking or taking drugs and driving.

"Unfortunately, 308 people ignored our warning. They now find themselves facing the prospect of starting the New Year with a court appearance and losing their driving license, which may have a huge impact on their life, that of their family and possibly their career.

"Those 308 arrests reflect 308 occasions where your police service has prevented a potentially serious or fatal road traffic collision.

"It is disappointing that a minority of people continue to disregard the safety of themselves and others, by taking the incredibly dangerous risk of driving after drinking or taking drugs."

"It is also clear from our arrests, that significantly more men than women are being detected (males accounted for 86.4% of arrests), while almost half of those arrested were aged between 30 and 49 years of age.

"The youngest person detected was 16 years of age and the eldest 83 years of age. The highest detection was 157μg/100ml over four times the legal limit of 35μg/100ml. This detection is not only one of highest recorded, but also one of the most shocking.

"Our message is clear. Never EVER drink and drive. Just one drink can impair decision making. Just one drink can cause a collision. Just one drink could kill."

"We will continue to focus our operational activity on road safety issues. We all share the roads. This means we all share the responsibility for road safety.

"Slow down. Pay greater attention to your surroundings. Always wear your seat belt and Never drive after drinking or taking drugs."