Over 300 people have been arrested to date this year across the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough for driving under the influence of drink or drugs.
This was the highest of the four council areas which make up the PSNI’s ‘South Area’.
Approaching the end of Road Safety Week 2024, police revealed some ‘sobering’ statistics in the hope drivers will continue to focus minds on staying safe on Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon’s roads.
So far this year 59 people have lost their lives on Northern Ireland’s roads, with 32 of these tragic fatalities occurring in South Area – made up of Mid Ulster, Fermanagh & Omagh, Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon, and Newry, Mourne & Down Councils.
“That’s 32 families, mainly from local rural areas, who will face Christmas this year without their loved one,” said a PSNI spokesperson.
“The pain of such loss is unfathomable and we must all work together to do everything in our power to bring down the number of people being killed on our roads.
“Across our local districts we have been focusing on ‘The Fatal Five’ – don’t drink or take drugs and drive; slow down; don’t be careless; always wear your seat belt and never use your mobile phone whilst driving – and raising awareness of their devastating consequences.
“Provisional data shows that we have made more than 900 arrests for driving under the influence of drink or drugs in South Area this year to date. E District (ABC) has the highest recorded number with 311 arrests, followed by D District (NMD) with 224, F District (MU) 199 and G District (FO) 185.
“In addition to roadside testing for alcohol, we have also now introduced ‘DrugWipes’, which can be used at the roadside to check for drugs. The kit uses a mouth swab, with a red line appearing if the person has taken the drugs.
“As Christmas approaches and we keep our emphasis on keeping people safe on our roads, we will also be launching our annual safety campaign ‘Seasons Greetings’ which will concentrate on public safety across a range of priorities including roads, retail, transport and your safety when out and about.
“Finally, we want to ensure that everyone has the knowledge and information they need to stay safe. We all share the responsibility to prevent deaths and serious injuries on our roads. If you suspect someone is driving under the influence, contact police immediately – you may well save lives.
“For more information go to https://www.psni.police.uk/fatal-five and continue to follow us across our social media accounts.”
