MASSIVE OPERATION AGAINST DRUNK DRIVERS | Daily News

MASSIVE OPERATION AGAINST DRUNK DRIVERS

Vehicles to be impounded until investigations complete :
Around 245 nabbed in 24 hours :

Persons driving under the influence of liquor would be arrested and their vehicles impounded until investigations are completed, said DIG Ajith Rohana, the head of the Police Motor Traffic Division.

“The Traffic Police has launched a massive operation to nab drunk drivers, especially during the festive season. Accordingly, the operation commenced at 6.00 am on Thursday and during the 24 hour period until 6.00 am yesterday the Police had arrested 245 persons driving under the influence of liquor,” the DIG told the Daily News.

He said in order to increase the number of breathalyser instruments already in stock, a further 25,000 units had been imported this week and distributed among the police stations countrywide. “We already have ample stocks of breathalyser units, but as we are aiming at launching a massive drive against drunk driving, we have brought this stock by air to ensure we have adequate units.”

The Traffic DIG said that during the 10 day period between April 10-20th every year, the highest number of accidents are reported. “Last year during the period from April 11-20th, 135 persons had been killed due to accidents and almost 750 persons had sustained injuries. Hence, it is clear that around 17 persons are killed in accidents on average during this season. This is a very sad situation and therefore, we have initiated this special operation to nab drunk drivers.”

DIG Ajith Rohana therefore, urged the people to either have a designated driver or use public or hired transport or refrain from driving after consuming alcohol.

“Those who intend attending functions are therefore, requested to refrain from driving after alcohol consumption. The number of accidents have been on the rise and even pedestrians and other road users are advised to be vigilant while on the road and especially when crossing roads.”

Around 8,000 police officers have been deployed islandwide to control traffic and prevent accidents during the festive season, while 2,400 Police officers have been deployed in Colombo and the suburbs to maintain road safety.

 

 


Add new comment