'Help us save lives': Police crackdown on drink driving over Christmas with increased patrols as annual Operation Limit launches
After 322 people were arrested last winter for drink and drug driving, police have said they will once again be increasing patrols on the road as they launch their annual campaign.
Throughout December the police force will be implementing increased patrols and enforcement activity on Hampshire roads to target drug and drink drivers, as part of Operation Limit.
The annual campaign aims to tackle dangerous driving across the festive season when more people get behind the wheel while impaired from alcohol and drugs.
In 2024, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Constabulary made a total of 322 arrests during the campaign, with152 drivers arrested on suspicion of drink driving and 170 arrested on suspicion of drug driving.
Chief Inspector Emma Hart, of the Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit, said: “Drink and drug driving kills and seriously injures people. The decision can be life changing for you and the people around you and there is absolutely no excuse for it.
“You will face serious consequences if we catch you driving while impaired from drink or drugs.
“We’re asking everyone to take responsibility and help us save lives. Don’t get behind the wheel if you’re not fit to drive.”
The police will also be conducting roadside tests on drivers leaving Southampton airport, as Operation Lift Off aims to stop people driving when they are over the limit after consuming alcohol on their holiday or on their flight home.
Inspector Chris Sharland added: “It’s not uncommon for holidaymakers to enjoy a drink in the airport or on their flight, but despite the excitement of your travels you still need to be careful before then driving home.
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“Our officers will be conducting roadside tests, engaging with arriving passengers and, where appropriate, administering breathalyser tests to make sure everyone arriving at the airport gets home safely, without putting themselves or others at risk.
“If you choose to drink alcohol on your flight home, please make sure you arrange for someone else to drive you home or just get a taxi, because it’s not worth the risk and we don’t want your holiday experience ruined.”
If you know someone is drink or drug driving call 999 if it is happening now. You can also provide information for a non-emergency by calling 101 or Crimestoppers