UPDATE: A major police operation in Geelong over the weekend has resulted in the arrest of 16 drivers for drink and drug offenses. Conducted during Operation Lockdown on December 19-20, 2023, this aggressive crackdown targeted major roads in North and South Geelong, highlighting the urgent need for road safety.
In a remarkable display of law enforcement, police executed 2,620 preliminary breath tests, identifying six drivers who exceeded the legal alcohol limit. Among these, a 51-year-old man from Bannockburn registered an alarming blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.173, more than three times the legal limit. His vehicle has been impounded for 30 days, and he is set to face court at a later date.
Equally concerning, a 43-year-old man from Jan Juc was also caught driving with a BAC of 0.153. His vehicle has been impounded, and he will appear in court soon as well.
In addition to alcohol offenses, police conducted 77 roadside drug tests, leading to 10 drivers testing positive for illicit substances. Notably, a 46-year-old woman from Charlton attempted to avoid a testing site but was eventually tested positive for both methamphetamine and MDMA.
The urgency of this operation is underscored by the tragic statistic of 13 lives lost in the Geelong and Surf Coast areas this year alone. “We are urging drivers not to get behind the wheel while impaired,” stated Acting Senior Sergeant Chris McCran of the Geelong and Colac Highway Patrol. “The last thing we want is to knock on families’ doors to inform them their loved ones are not coming home during the festive season.”
McCran emphasized the importance of planning ahead, urging drivers, “If you’re planning to drink, don’t drive—leave the car at home, arrange a designated driver, or use ride-share services.”
The operation did not only focus on impaired drivers; police also detected 12 disqualified, suspended, or unlicensed drivers, along with nine unregistered vehicles and seven speeding offenses throughout the two-night operation.
Authorities confirmed that the strong police presence will continue across Geelong and the Surf Coast during this critical period, with checkpoints expected at any time and place.
As the festive season approaches, this operation serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with impaired driving. Stay informed, stay safe, and share this urgent message to protect lives on the road.
