Operation RAIID (Remove All Intoxicated and Impaired Drivers)

During the weekend of the 6th, 7th and 8th of May 2010, Police in the Eastern Bay of Plenty conducted a campaign targeting drunk and impaired drivers.

As a result 47 drivers face prosecution for drink driving, a further 4 drivers were processed pursuant to drugged driver legislation and are awaiting the result of their blood tests, 2928 vehicles were stopped and their drivers breath tested.

A number of people were arrested for a variety of offences including drug related offending, disqualified driving and failing to stop for Police.

The Department of Courts fines enforcement team seized 5 vehicles for non payment of fines and seized $3000.

Sergeant Ray Wylie of the Whakatäne Police says he is disgusted at the high numbers of apprehensions.

"Judging by the results, unfortunately, despite all the advertising, crashes and apprehensions, excessive consumption of alcohol and drink driving is still a major problem in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

"The challenge is for our community to work together alongside Police to reduce this problem. It is not just a Police problem, it is everyone's problem. It is our families, friends, neighbours and work mates who are at risk from drunk drivers on the roads."

During the campaign Police processed a 34 year old female for drink driving.

"This women's family has been directly impacted by a drunk driver, her own daughter was seriously injured by a drunk driver last year and had seen the impacts first hand, but, unbelievably she decided to drink and drive."

Police will continue to conduct campaigns of this nature to ensure all road users are safe on our roads from drunk drivers.