The number of traffic offenders being caught by police in Tasmania’s Western District has increased since last year.

Inspector Adam Spencer of Western Road Policing Services said police in the district had caught 2,191 total traffic offenders since 1 January.

“That’s 230 more offenders than this time last year,” he said.

“What is concerning is that a large proportion of those offenders were caught committing high-risk traffic offences, an extra 96 compared to last year.”

“The increase in traffic offences includes drink driving (123 offences, an increase of 33.7%), speeding (1,220 offences, an increase of 12.4%) and inattention (166 offences, an increase of 38.3%).”

“Last week a 30-year-old Devonport man was caught drink driving for fourth time this year and was remanded in custody.”

“On Saturday police from our uniform and criminal investigation areas caught drink drivers and disqualified drivers in Queenstown, Burnie and Devonport.”

“If you are a repeat offender, take note that Western District police from all areas will be targeting you.”

“We make no apologies for it because it’s about keeping our community safe.”

“If you commit offences we will charge you, and in certain circumstances clamp or seize your car, disqualify your licence on the spot, and bring you before the court.”

“We know most people in our community do the right thing on our roads, and police will be holding those who don’t to account.”