Over 350 drivers have been caught for different road offences following a police campaign over the past weekend.

The PSNI’s Road Policing Unit carried out 'Operation Viper' last Friday and Saturday (14th and 15th October) aimed at reducing the number of deaths on the roads and identifying drivers who break the law. In total 366 drivers were caught for a range of offences.

These were: 9 drivers detected for dangerous driving, 93 for careless driving, 20 for drink driving, 97 for excess speeding, 109 for seat belt offences, 35 for no insurance, 3 for driving whilst disqualified.

Chief Inspector Mark Purdon of the Roads Policing Unit stressed that drivers must take a responsible attitude when behind the wheel.

“It continues to amaze and sadden police officers that some motorists persist in disregarding the basic rules of road safety. All drivers must be aware of their responsibility not only for their own safety, but the safety of other road users," he said.

“Drivers should heed speed limits, wear their seatbelt, and drive with care and consideration for other road users. They should never do anything that could impair their ability to drive safely. These are simple rules, and if everyone abided by them, we would see a considerable drop in deaths and injuries on Northern Ireland’s Roads."

Police targeted dangerous and careless drivers, motorists travelling with excess speed or not wearing a seat belt, and drivers under the influence of drink or drugs during the weekend campaign.

“The Police Service remains committed to tackling the issue of road safety through both education and enforcement and we make no apology for that," Chief Inspector Purdon concluded.

(MB/GB)