Almost one in seven drivers returned positive drug tests during a major police operation across the Hunter Valley, prompting renewed warnings about dangerous driving behaviour on regional roads.
Operation Spoiler was conducted between Friday 15 May and Sunday 17 May, with Highway Patrol officers from across the Northern Region joined by the Traffic Response Group. The high‑visibility operation targeted speeding and impaired driving in Maitland, Cessnock, Singleton and Scone, following high rates of fatal and serious injury crashes.
During the operation, police conducted 7,597 random breath tests, with 35 drivers returning a positive alcohol reading. A total of 649 drug tests were also carried out, with 92 positive results. Secondary testing was conducted for all drivers, with samples sent away for further analysis.
Police also issued 1,008 infringement notices, including three for alleged speeds exceeding 45 kilometres per hour, and 45 people were charged for a range of traffic and criminal offences.
Newcastle‑Hunter Sector Highway Patrol Chief Inspector Thomas Barnes said the results showed too many drivers were still making poor decisions behind the wheel.
“These figures are deeply concerning and highlight that too many drivers are still choosing to get behind the wheel after consuming drugs or alcohol,” he said.
“Drug driving remains a major contributor to serious crashes, and the fact that nearly one in seven drivers tested returned a positive result is a concern for police and the community.
“Highway Patrol will continue to target high-risk behaviour, including speeding and impaired driving, to keep our roads as safe as possible.
“If you make the wrong decision to drive under the influence, you will be caught.”
Similar operations will be planned and conducted across the region.
