Crackdown nets 147 as drink-drive videos released

Officers have arrested 147 people on suspicion of drink or drug driving in the West Midlands during the first two weeks of a festive crackdown.

Operation Limit aims to keep roads safe by "targeting those who put lives at risk by driving under the influence", said West Midlands Police.

The force shared footage of some of the arrests on YouTube, including one where an officer says he can see "an empty bottle of drink" in the vehicle as well as lager cans.

Officers said in the film another anonymous suspect failed a roadside breath test and was "quadruple" the legal limit of 35 micrograms.

"Drink and drug driving can have devastating consequences," a force spokesperson said.

"A split-second decision to drive under the influence can destroy families, end careers, and cost lives."

Officers said the roads would be packed this weekend as people celebrated the festive season, and police would be out stopping cars and checking drivers.

Insp Liz Benson from the force's roads policing unit said driving under the influence was one of the biggest causes of serious collisions.

"Every arrest we make is a potential tragedy prevented. We don't want to knock on doors this Christmas to tell families their loved one isn't coming home," she said.

"Please think twice before getting behind the wheel after drinking or taking drugs."

Police added people who know someone who regularly drinks or takes drugs and drives could report them anonymously via Crimestoppers or dial 999 in an emergency.

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