Following a dedicated operation targeting drink and drug driving in Selsey, multiple individuals have been apprehended. The initiative, known as Operation Harp, is part of Sussex Police’s strategic approach to combat drug-related offenses, property crimes, and traffic violations.
This operation, conducted on December 21 by the Specialist Enforcement Team (SEU) and the Chichester Neighbourhood Police Team, resulted in three arrests during the evening:
- An 18-year-old male from Selsey was detained on suspicion of possessing a Class B substance and drug-driving.
- A 17-year-old male from Selsey was apprehended on suspicion of drug-driving.
- A 22-year-old male from Westbourne was arrested for alleged offenses including failing to stop, dangerous driving, unlicensed driving, and driving uninsured.
These individuals have been released on bail while investigations continue.
The operation also involved various positive interactions with the public, issuing of warnings, Traffic Offence Reports, Home Office Road Traffic Reports, and notices under the Vehicle Defect Rectification Scheme for vehicles without a valid MOT.
Coinciding with this operation was Operation Limit, a broader Sussex Police initiative aimed at curbing drink and drug driving throughout the county during the holiday season.
Inspector Damian Merrifield said: “This operation is hugely important to take some strain off the health service and we can catch those who aren’t in control of their vehicle due to the misuse of drink or drugs.
“We have seen the results of Op Limit, and the increase of drink and drug driving during Christmas. Op Harp is that extra response to prevent anti-social and criminal use of the roads.
“Our teams work extremely hard to make sure the residents of Selsey are safe and this is positive action against those who are prepared to use the roads illegally.”
