Police have ramped up enforcement on Hunter Valley roads, deploying 25 additional highway patrol officers from Sydney over the weekend in a bid to curb the region’s rising road toll.
The operation saw 2,300 breath tests conducted, with 13 drivers caught drink driving. Officers also carried out 550 random drug tests, returning 45 positive results. Acting Inspector Brendan Gregory said drug driving remains a major concern. “The most common substances detected are methamphetamine and cannabis,” he said. “Unfortunately, that ratio is quite alarming compared to drink driving.”
Police issued 300 infringement notices for speeding and other traffic offences, and laid 50 criminal charges for non-traffic matters. Gregory said the increased presence was designed to remind drivers to slow down and stay sober. “We want people to get to their destination safely,” he said.
This year, 20 people have died on Hunter Valley roads – the highest toll in the state and eight more than last year. The region has also recorded 250 crashes resulting in injury. Police are warning drivers to take extra care ahead of the Christmas period, with double demerits starting on 22 December.
