Tasmania Police conducted more than 4,000 Random Breath Tests over the weekend of 27 – 28 November as part of the national initiative, Operation RAID.

In a historic first, all Australian and New Zealand jurisdictions joined forces last weekend in targeting drivers affected by alcohol or drugs.

Operation RAID, an initiative of Police Commissioners across Australia and New Zealand, was conducted to raise the awareness of the road safety implications of drink/drug driving.

During the weekend Tasmania Police conducted 4,085 Random Breath Tests across the state as part of this coordinated and high profile approach to reinforcing the road safety message.

26 motorists were charged with driving in excess of the legal alcohol limit, and 5 drivers returned positive readings for driving whilst having used drugs, a result that has disappointed police.

“We warned drivers that we would be conducting this operation and despite the warning 31 drivers placed themselves and the motoring public at risk by driving whilst impaired,” said Inspector Mark Beech-Jones.

A further 33 drivers were charged during Operation RAID with either being disqualified or unlicensed; a result that further concerns police.

“Tasmania police will continue to focus their traffic activities on high visibility operations to eliminate high risk driver behaviour,” said Inspector Beech-Jones.

National figures from Operation RAID can be found at:
www.anzpaa.org.au/current-initiatives/operation-raid/operation-raid-2010

Tasmania Police Media
(03) 6230 2296