Operation to target drink and drug drivers hailed a success

Almost 60 drivers were stopped by police during a day of action to target drink and drug drivers.

Operation Blitzen, funded by the Cambridgeshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) through the Vision Zero Partnership,was carried out in Huntingdon, Peterborough and Cambridge.

Out of the 59 vehicles which were stopped on Saturday, 25 August, three drug drivers were arrested – two in Peterborough and one in Huntingdon.

Other offences identified included no insurance, an illegal window tint and a provisional licence holder without learner plates.

PC Nick Southern, casualty reduction officer, said: “This is a fantastic result. Three drug drivers were taken off the roads which could have otherwise gone on to hurt or kill either themselves or someone else in our county.

“This operation was about educating road users and having a visible presence on the road. The public were overwhelmingly positive and complimentary to see officers being proactive.

“While the operation was for one day only our focus on drink and drug drivers is 24/7 through our roads policing team and officers on the frontline.”

The operation marked the end of the county’s summer drink and drug campaign, which ran from August 14 to 21 and resulted in a total of 22 drink and drug drive arrests – 14 for drink driving, one for drug driving and seven failed/refused to provide a specimen.

Cambridgeshire Police and Crime Commissioner Darryl Preston said: “There is no excuse for anyone to drink or take drugs and drive. I fully support any activity which catches those who think they are above the law and have blatant disregard for the safety of themselves and other road users.

“Drug driving has no place in our communities, and I am pleased that the force is using initiatives like Op Blitzen to educate and raise awareness of the dangers of driving under the influence.”