North Wales Police Launches Festive Operation Against Drink and Drug Driving

North Wales Police has initiated a festive operation aimed at combating drink and drug driving during the holiday season. The campaign, known as #OpLimit, commenced on December 1, 2023, and will run throughout the month, coinciding with one of the busiest travel periods of the year. This initiative involves police forces across Wales and the broader United Kingdom employing intelligence-driven strategies to identify individuals driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

An increased police presence will be evident during peak times, particularly on weekends and the mornings following nights out. Officers will actively monitor local hotspots known for drink and drug-related offences. In addition to traditional patrols, North Wales Police will utilize social media and a digital advertising campaign to spread awareness about the severe consequences of impaired driving. A digital advertising van will traverse the region displaying vital safety messages throughout December.

The operation is coordinated by the Roads Crime Unit, with participation from various local policing teams, the Armed Policing Unit, and the Special Constabulary. Sergeant Emma Birrell, a representative of North Wales Police’s Roads Crime Unit, emphasized the zero-tolerance approach to impaired driving, stating, “Our December campaign will see us conducting extensive patrols across the region, targeting hotspot areas and conducting intelligence-led stops.”

The potential ramifications of drink and drug driving are significant. Those caught can face a driving ban of a minimum of 12 to 18 months. Sergeant Birrell urged the public to consider the long-term effects of losing their driving privileges. “Think seriously about how that would affect your life; driving to work or college, childcare arrangements, or socializing,” she noted. “The impact of losing your licence is enormous. You could lose your job and your home. Worse still, you could injure or kill yourself or someone else.”

The campaign will not overlook rural areas. Sergeant Birrell reassured residents that despite the region’s rural nature, police will be vigilant. “Anyone considering driving while under the influence should know that we will be out and about waiting for them. There really is no hiding place.” In 2023 alone, North Wales Police reported 828 arrests for drink driving and 1,217 arrests for drug driving across the region.

The message from North Wales Police is straightforward: if individuals plan to drink, they should arrange alternative means of transport. “We are fully committed to making the roads safer for all,” Sergeant Birrell stated. “Don’t drive under the influence of drink or drugs — even a very small amount can impair your ability to drive safely. Don’t let your friends and family pay the price.”

Individuals with concerns or information related to impaired driving can contact North Wales Police via their live chat service on the force’s website, by calling 101 (or 999 in an emergency), or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111. The ongoing efforts aim to ensure that the festive season remains safe for everyone on the roads.