PSNI launches winter anti-drink and drug drive operation for 2025
Authorised vehicle checkpoints will be in operation this winter as a 'physical deterrent' to anyone thinking about drink or drug driving, the PSNI has said.
It comes as the Police Service of Northern Ireland launched its winter anti-drink and drug driving campaign on Tuesday, December 2.
“There is no excuse for driving with drink or drugs,” Chief Superintendent Sam Donaldson said. “If you get behind the wheel of a vehicle after having a drink, or taken drugs, you are putting yourself and everyone else at risk.”
A proactive policing operation will run across Northern Ireland to increase roadside testing, and with targeted vehicle stops for drivers suspected of being under the influence.
“We’ll also coordinate road safety operations in border counties, with colleagues from An Garda Síochána Traffic Corp. Our Road Policing Unit and Interceptor Teams, local and neighbourhood policing teams will be working alongside Tactical Support Group colleagues. Authorised vehicle checkpoints will be in operation as a very visible, physical deterrent to anyone thinking about drink or drug driving,” Chief Superintendent Donaldson added.
During last year’s anti drink and drug drive campaign, there were 6,265 preliminary breath tests conducted between December 1, 2024 and January 1, 2025, with 298 people arrested on suspicion of drink or drug driving during this time.
Between January 1 and November 30, 2025, there were 2,582 arrests for drink/drug driving offences in Northern Ireland.
“These figures show that people are still willing to take the risk, that some people on our roads simply don’t care about how their selfish and reckless decisions can harm others and that is really disturbing,” the Chief Superintendent said. “Driving with drink or drugs is a crime and drastically increases the chances of causing a collision. It only takes one drink.
“Our appeal is to anyone planning a night out, planning to drive, is don’t drink any alcohol or take any drugs at all."
Appealing for the public to report anyone they suspect of drink or drug driving, he added: “Report it immediately on 101, or in an emergency dial 999. If you prefer to remain anonymous you can call Crimestoppers. By reporting could help save a life on the roads.”
Mick Duthie, Director of Operations at Crimestoppers, said: “If you know someone who is drink or drug driving regularly, and you prefer to stay anonymous, our charity is here to support you. Please let us know either via our website crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling our 24/7 Contact Centre on 0800555111, where you will stay completely anonymous.”
This year a number of the PSNI’s Roads Policing, Tactical Support Group and local District officers will also have Drugwipes at their disposal, allowing police to target those using illegal drugs while driving.
“Our pilot commenced in August 2024, since then officers have conducted approximately 150 tests, 79 have tested positive for cannabis and/or cocaine,” Chief Superintendent Donaldson said.
"When the circumstance allow for officers to conduct a drugs wipe test, there is approximately a 50 percent positive return rate, which is really concerning. The equipment is also in addition to Preliminary Impairment Tests.
“Every driver or motorcyclist stopped by police for any moving traffic offence can expect to be breathalysed. Anyone involved in a collision or who we suspect may have consumed alcohol or taken drugs will also be tested.”