In the know

Record 369 arrests made during Surrey’s winter drink and drug driving crackdown

Throughout December, Surrey Police officers worked tirelessly as part of Operation Limit to target drivers impaired by alcohol and/or drugs and keep Surrey’s roads safe. 

Operation Limit is part of a nationally coordinated campaign led by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), aimed at reducing serious injuries and fatalities caused by drink and drug driving during one of the highest-risk periods of the year. 

During the campaign, our Roads Policing Unit and local policing teams carried out increased intelligence-led patrols, targeted roadside checks and testing across the county, focusing on busy town centres, key routes and the night-time economy. The results speak for themselves. 

During Operation Limit, officers made a record 369 arrests for offences linked to drink and drug driving, and other criminality uncovered through enforcement activity. This represents a significant increase on the 196 arrests made during last year's campaign, and highlights both the scale of the issue and the importance of continued proactive policing. 

Of those arrested: 

As in previous years, drug driving continues to be more prevalent than drink driving in Surrey, a stark reminder that impairment behind the wheel is not limited to alcohol alone. 

Every arrest made represents a potentially devastating collision prevented. Drink and drug driving puts everyone at risk, from motorists to cyclists and pedestrians, and the impact of one poor decision can change lives forever. 

While Operation Limit brings increased visibility during the winter months, enforcement against drink and drug driving does not stop in January. Our officers continue to carry out patrols and roadside checks 365 days a year, and the message remains clear: if you drive under the influence, you will be caught. 

Thank you to our officers and staff who worked relentlessly over the festive period. Thank you also to our communities for continuing to support us, challenge unsafe decisions and look out for one another. 

By planning ahead, speaking up and making safer choices, we can all play a part in keeping Surrey’s roads safe, not just at Christmas, but all year round.