Queensland Police suspend roadside breath and drug testing ‘immediately’

Roadside alcohol and drug testing in Queensland will be immediately suspended with police concerned that they could contribute to the spread of coronavirus.

QUEENSLAND Police Service has suspended its booze bus operations over fears they would help spread coronavirus.

A directive from Deputy Commissioner Steve Gollschewski was sent out to officers today announcing all roadside breath and drug testing operations would be suspended “immediately”.

But drivers will still be caught if they do the wrong thing, with police told to ensure they maintained a “highly visible and proactive approach” to targeted testing.

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Roadside breath testing will be suspended in Queensland due to the coronavirus outbreak. Picture: Marc Robertson

“All members are to ensure that a highly visible and proactive approach is maintained in our commitment to reducing road trauma,” the directive, sent out today, stated.

“This includes mobile breath testing and drug testing of drivers, as well as other enforcement activities.”

The directive said the move was designed to protect “our members and the community from possible transmissions of COVID-19”.

“Static RBT and RDT activities are defined as co-ordinated roadside multiple vehicle interceptions on the line or planned booze bus type operations.

“This advice will remain in place until further notice.”

“Mobile RBTs and RDTs will still be carried out as part of our commitment to enforcing the road rules and carrying out our responsibility for community and road safety.

“These activities include those done as a result of an interception or as part of high visibility mobile patrols.”

A statement released by QPS said the move was to “minimise health risks to QPS officers and the community” but that road safety continued to be a priority.