North Wales: HGV drivers among 90 arrested in Christmas anti-drink and drug drive campaign

North Wales Police have arrested over 90 individuals since the start of their annual Christmas Anti Drink and Drug Drive Campaign on 1 December.

The seasonal crackdown has seen 40 people arrested for drink driving and 54 for drug driving.

Among the arrests are two HGV drivers stopped last Saturday afternoon on suspicion of drug driving.

The first, a 36-year-old man from Amlwch, was arrested on the A55 near Tal-y-Bont after police were alerted to his erratic driving.

He tested positive for cocaine at the roadside and has been released under investigation.

Shortly after, a 20-year-old HGV driver from Bala was stopped on the A5 near Ogwen.

He also tested positive for cocaine and was found to be driving without a licence, insurance, or MOT.

He has also been released under investigation.

Sergeant Emma Birrell of the Roads Crime Unit said the campaign is vital to keeping roads safe during the festive period. “We have a zero-tolerance approach to drink and drug driving all year round, but our December campaign sees us conducting extensive patrols across the region,” she said.

“Driving whilst under the influence risks the lives of all road users, and I’d like to thank all those who have contacted us so far with information. Your calls really do make a difference.”

The campaign has highlighted alarming cases, including a 39-year-old man from Wrexham arrested on 17 December with a breathalyser reading of 166 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath—nearly five times the legal limit of 35.

He has since been charged and will appear before Wrexham Magistrates Court on 7 January.

Those arrested on suspicion of drug driving are awaiting test results to determine further charges.

Suspects tested positive for substances including cannabis and cocaine, with some testing positive for both. The ages of those arrested range from 17 to 78.

Police are continuing their patrols across the region, from Wrexham to Holywell and Blaenau Ffestiniog to Barmouth.

Sergeant Birrell urged partygoers to plan their journeys home responsibly and reminded drivers that alcohol and drugs can remain in their system longer than they expect.

“Traditionally, this weekend sees many attending Christmas parties as they clock off for the festive season, so we are pleading with people to make arrangements to get home safely,” she said.

“We want everyone to enjoy a safe and happy festive season, and this is one of our most important annual campaigns.”

The public is encouraged to report suspected drink or drug drivers to the police by calling 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Updates on the campaign are being shared on social media using the hashtags #Fatal5 and #OpLimit.