Police arrest more than 300 people across Hampshire & the Thames Valley
The arrests are from the first two weeks of a joint Christmas drink and drug crackdown across the two force areas
Last updated 24th Dec 2021
Dozens of people have been arrested and hundreds more have been stopped in Hampshire and the Thames Valley as part of a festive crackdown on drink and drug driving.
On December 1, the Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit of Hampshire Constabulary and Thames Valley Police launched Operation Holly, which combines educational and enforcement activity and runs until 1 January.
Figures for the first two weeks of the campaign have been released.
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary
- 567 breath tests were conducted, with ten positive results
- 78 drug wipes were carried out, with 35 positive results
- 138 people have been arrested, 84 for drink driving and 54 for drug driving
Thames Valley Police
-1123 breath tests were conducted, with 36 positive results
-174 drug wipes were carried out, with 79 positive results
-195 people have been arrested, 104 for drink driving and 91 for drug driving
Sergeant Dave Hazlett, of Hampshire & Thames Valley Police Road Safety Unit, said:
“For anyone out there considering driving after drinking alcohol or taking drugs over the festive period, these figures should act as a serious warning.
“We are out in your communities, and if we know the signs of drink and drug driving – so is it worth the risk of being caught, let alone the harm you could do to yourself and other road users?
“Drink and drug driving is one of the four main causes of injury and death on our roads. Even the slightest amount in your system could reduce your ability to drive safely, therefore increasing the risk of causing serious harm to yourself or others.
“Our priority is always to make the roads safer for everyone.”
If you know of anyone who is drink or drug driving call 999 in an emergency, 101 with information or report anonymously via Crimestoppers.