Drink Drive Operation in Waitakere

This weekend Police conducted an operation targeting drink driving in Waitakere City; this was with the assistance of Waitemata District traffic units, the specialised Traffic Alcohol Group, and other area staff. The operation was supported by and the Ministry of Justice, Business Collections Unit, who accompanied Police.
Operation ' Safe West ' was conducted to target the drink driver and as a result a number of checkpoints were set up in specific locations throughout the Waitakere area. The operation commenced on Friday 27th March at 2000 hours and concluded at 0400 hours on Sunday 29th March.
The operation saw a total of 19 checkpoints strategically placed around the Waitakere suburbs. A total of 116 drivers were detected driving with excess breath alcohol. 39 of these drivers elected to have blood tests taken, which will determine whether or not they too will face court proceedings.
This is a disappointing result when compared to previous operations within Waitakere City, a similar Operation at the same time last year netted 78 persons with excess breath alcohol.
A total of 10 vehicles were impounded during the evenings plus 4 seized by Court Bailiff's in lieu of fines payment. A high proportion of drivers had their licenses suspended due to the high alcohol levels detected; this included some drivers who were intoxicated to the level of being incapable of controlling a motor vehicle.
There were 16 persons arrested for a variety of offences including warrants, driving offences and unlawful taking.
Drink driving is a serious offence and we can all make a difference to eliminate the sorrow that is caused from alcohol related injury crashes. The responsibility lies with every person to promote safe driving through being strong enough to challenge our current alcohol culture. Police actively promote the use of Host Responsibility, Sober drivers, Taxi's, and Dial a Driver as alternatives,
As the year progresses Waitakere Police will continue to target drivers who choose to drink and drive to ensure the roads are safe for our community.

ENDS:
Issued by:
Senior Sergeant Ian Byrne
O/C Tactics
WAITAKERE POLICE
Waitemata District