Road safety campaign targets drink driving
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Police have concluded a territory-wide campaign, arresting 44 drivers for drink-driving related offences.

The campaign, codenamed "Quickchaser", and held between last Wednesday (October 1) and yesterday (October 7) was aimed at enhancing public awareness about road safety and targeting drink-driving offences. It also aimed at reminding motorists that the revised road traffic legislation with enhanced penalties for drink driving would take effect in early 2009 and that Police will enforce the existing legislation to the letter of law.

It was the latest in an ongoing series of campaigns conducted by the police during 2008 using a mix of publicity, education and enforcement to target such offences.

Officers from Police Regional Road Safety Teams visited various bar and restaurant areas throughout the territory and distributed about 16,656 leaflets appealing to motorists not to drive after drinking. During the campaign period, 173 motorists were invited to take voluntary breath tests.

Strict enforcement was taken during the National Day holiday period, with 815 roadside checks conducted and 44 drivers arrested for drink-driving related offences.

"Motorists are reminded not to drive after consuming alcohol. Offenders will be liable to a maximum fine of $25,000 and three years' imprisonment and penalised 10 driving-offence points; or possible disqualification from driving. In addition, they may not be insured when being convicted for drink driving offences, " a Police spokesman said.

Police Report No. 1
Issued by PPRB

Ends/Wednesday, October 8, 2008
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