Essex police make 29 drink and drug drive arrests in single day

Targeted operation sees vehicles seized and dangerous drivers taken off the roads

Police seize 13 vehicles and bring dangerous pursuits to a safe end during countywide day of action
Author: Emma SmithPublished 15th Dec 2025

Twenty-nine people were arrested for drink or drug driving during a countywide day of action on Saturday 13 December.

Police also seized 13 vehicles and issued 134 traffic offence reports as officers targeted dangerous driving across Essex.

Specialist roads policing officers safely brought two pursuits to an end, including one vehicle reaching speeds of 125mph on the A13. Armed officers were also involved in several incidents, with multiple drivers arrested on suspicion of drink or drug driving and failing to stop.

Superintendent Ian Hughes said it was “completely unacceptable” that people continue to drive while unfit, especially in the run-up to Christmas, urging drivers to plan ahead and never take the risk.