Six drug drive arrests made in the space of a few hours

A HGV driver who tested positive for cocaine at the roadside was among the six drug drive arrests made by the Roads Crime Unit in the space of a few hours yesterday (Tuesday, January 14).

The 57-year-old from Runcorn was stopped on the A55 by Llanddulas following reports from concerned members of the public regarding the manner of his driving on the A470. An officer from the Roads Crime Unit was dispatched to the area and stopped the HGV. The HGV driver was arrested and later released under investigation whilst the results of further tests are returned.

Other arrests included a disqualified driver from Widnes who was arrested in Bangor after being stopped on the A55. The 26-year-old tested positive for both cannabis and cocaine at the roadside and was arrested and taken to custody.

A 45-year-old man from Kinmel Bay was also arrested on suspicion of drug driving after testing positive for cocaine at the roadside. He was also issued with TOR’s (Traffic Offence Reports) after the officer also discovered his vehicle had two defective tyres whereby the cord was exposed on both front tyres, he didn’t have a valid MOT and the driver wasn’t wearing his seatbelt when stopped.

Chief Inspector Caroline Mullen-Hurst of North Wales Police said: “We’d like to thank the individuals who phoned us with their concerns regarding some of the behaviour they witnessed yesterday – although we will never know, they have potentially saved lives.

“Driving whilst under the influence has significant impact on people; the devastation caused to families following a fatal collision can be immeasurable. Despite our repeated warnings it’s extremely disappointing that people are still choosing to risk their own lives and the lives of other road users.

“Drugs can affect your mind and body in a variety of ways that mean you aren't able to drive safely. Not only that, but the effects can also last for hours or even days. Driving while under the influence of drugs can lead to slower reaction times, poor concentration, confusion, fatigue, being overconfident which means you take unnecessary risks and erratic behaviour. Your ability to drive is significantly impaired and the chances of you being involved in a collision will drastically increase.

She added: “We’ve seen the aftermath of far too many tragedies on the roads of North Wales due to the selfish actions of a minority. Choosing to drive when impaired by drugs is dangerous and unacceptable and I don’t think people are quite grasping the full extent of the danger drug-driving poses.

“Officers are on duty 24 hours a day; seven days a week and will continue to take robust action at the roadside as part of our ongoing commitment to keeping the roads safe for all.”

If you have information relating to someone you think is driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs, please contact North Wales Police via the website or by calling 101. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency always dial 999.