Operation Fume set to target dangerous drink and drug driving offenders
Police are set to target drink and drug driving after a spike over the Australia Day long weekend. Here’s what you need to know if you hit the road in northern NSW in the next four weeks.
Police & Courts
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Tweed-Byron police are set to target drug and alcohol-affected drivers in a new four-week plan called ‘Operation Fume’.
The operation was realised after a spike of drivers breaking the law over the Australia Day long weekend.
The behaviour included a Queensland man who was detected driving at 187km/h in a 110km/h zone at Sleepy Hollow on January 29, 2023.
The man was fined $2616 and had his licence suspended for three months.
Far North Sector Traffic and Highway Patrol Chief Inspector David Vandergriend said drivers had to take responsibility for the choices they made.
“High-risk behaviour puts other motorists and pedestrians at risk as well,” he said
“It is no secret consuming alcohol impairs your ability to drive and can lead to life-changing consequences.
“Operation Fume will involve our officers stopping vehicles as part of stationary sites, mobile patrols and targeted activity for vehicles and location.”
Chief Inspector Vandergriend warned drivers planning to sneak past police should expect to be caught.
“The message is simple: have a plan B to get home safely if you’re drinking, don’t drive under the influence, keep to the speed limit, wear a seatbelt, and stay focused on the road,” Inspector Vandergriend said.
“There’s no reason to break the law or endanger the lives of other road users, and our officers will be on hand to deal with those who do.”
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