Wiltshire Police Crack Down on Drunk and Drugged Drivers this Christmas
Nineteen days into their annual Christmas drink and drug drive crackdown, Wiltshire Police have already hauled in 47 offenders. Officers from the Roads Policing Unit and local neighbourhood teams are stepping up patrols to keep roads safe this festive season.
Van Driver Busted on M4 with Drugs and No Insurance
This morning (19/12), police stopped a van on the M4 suspected of being overloaded. A closer look revealed the vehicle had no insurance. A roadside drug test then showed the driver was under the influence of cannabis.
The driver was promptly arrested and taken into custody.
Sgt Neil Bott said: “The van caught our attention as it looked overloaded and had several lighting defects. When officers stopped it, they could immediately smell cannabis. With wet roads this morning, driving a poorly maintained vehicle with no insurance and while high on drugs is not only illegal but reckless.”
Festive Drink/Drug Drive Campaign in Full Swing
The crackdown runs throughout December, with officers conducting early morning and late-night checks. The goal: catch anyone who’s over the limit or under the influence of illegal substances.
Acting Inspector Will Ayres added: “Our officers are working hard to keep Wiltshire’s roads safe at a time when more drivers hit the road after Christmas parties, often having drunk more than usual and neglected to plan their journey home.”
“Our message is clear: Don’t risk your life or others’. If you’re drinking or using illegal drugs, don’t drive. Always plan how you’ll get home safely.”
