Over 300 drink and drug driving offences recorded in Kent during December
Police urge responsible choices over New Year
Kent Police has reported 301 drink and drug driving offences in the month of December as part of its annual Christmas enforcement campaign.
The patrols, part of the national Operation Limit initiative, aim to reduce road collisions and keep Kent’s roads safe during the festive season.
Running throughout December, the campaign has focused on stop checks and testing those involved in road traffic collisions for the presence of alcohol or illegal substances.
From the 1st to 29th December, arrests have been made in connection with:
- 104 drink driving offences
- 80 drug driving offences
- 85 cases of being unfit to drive due to drink or drugs
- 32 instances of failing to provide a specimen for testing
Chief Inspector Craig West, Head of Roads Policing for Kent Police, highlighted the dangers of impaired driving. “Driving while under the influence of drink or drugs remains one of the leading causes of serious road collisions, alongside speeding, failing to wear a seatbelt, and using a mobile phone or other electronic device while driving,” he said.
CI Craig West warned of the severe consequences for those caught driving under the influence. “It’s unacceptable that there are still people putting themselves and other road users at risk of harm. They have been arrested and will be brought before the courts.”
Advice for motorists during New Year celebrations
With New Year’s Eve approaching, Kent Police has urged residents to plan their journeys carefully if drinking alcohol is part of their celebrations.
CI Craig West reminded drivers to arrange alternative transport and avoid the risks of driving impaired.
“If you are planning to celebrate the New Year with a drink then please do not drive. Arrange alternative transport to get home safely or risk being arrested, receiving a conviction, and being banned from driving,” he said.
Operation Limit campaign
The enforcement initiative forms part of the wider Operation Limit programme, run nationally to prevent fatalities and serious injuries caused by impaired driving. Kent Police remains committed to making roads safer and reducing danger to motorists, passengers, and pedestrians.
Residents are encouraged to celebrate responsibly and avoid putting themselves or others at risk. For further road safety advice, visit Kent Police’s website .