50/50 split in the amount of drunk and drug drivers caught on the roads over this Christmas and New Year

Over the month-long campaign, termed Operation Limit which targets drunk and drug drivers on the Greater Manchester network, across the festive period it has resulted in over 500 road users who put other people and themselves at increased risk.

A total of 570 arrests were made by our officers, with 585 offences recorded for either drink, drug, or both.

An even split of the two main offences detected were 259 arrests for drug related offences, 259 for alcohol related, with 67 failing to provide a sample.

Of those taken into custody 88.4% were male, with the most common age bracket falling between 28-37 years-old at 204 people.

During this intense period over 1,700 breath tests were taken and over 200 drugs wipes administered at the roadside.

Operation Limit is the national policing response to the potential increase in road traffic collisions which could accompany festive celebrations. It runs from December 1 to January 1 every year.

Officers around the whole of the force, supported by Roads Policing Unit (RPU) have taken a proactive approach to help prevent deaths and serious injury caused by motorists choosing to drive under the influence of drink and drugs.

Arrests have been made for those who chose to get behind the wheel of a vehicle while under the influence of drugs and alcohol or for failing to provide a sample at the roadside.

As 2025 progresses roadside checks will continue to be carried out at key locations, to ensure the roads remain safe and those intent on causing unnecessary harm are caught. Alongside this enforcement officers will continue to engage with local communities to raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence of drink and drugs.

Chief Inspector Michael Parker from our Special Operations Branch said: “Whilst the figures look alarming in the grand scheme of things, it showcases why we intensely and proactively patrol our road network daily to target those who get behind the wheel mainly whilst under the influence.

“We know the festive period increases the likelihood of this happening but want to make it clear that if you decide to break the law, you will have to face the full consequences for your reckless actions.

“We see on far too many occasions the devastating consequences that result in drivers having impaired vision due the effects of drink and drugs.

“If you are concerned for someone who is going to act irresponsibly, please contact us as we can take evasive action to put a stop to their actions.

“Also, we rely on communities to keep engaging with our officers on your concerns, as we are determined to work with local councils and other key partners to work together to make roads safer for all users, whether they are a driver, rider, cyclist or pedestrian.”

To report a drink or drug driver, call 101 or dial 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, report it anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

To submit footage of dangerous driving, please visit the Operation Snap portal. To use the system and begin your report, you can do so by clicking here: Report a road traffic incident | Greater Manchester Police (gmp.police.uk)

We are working with road safety partners across Greater Manchester on Vision Zero – a plan to end deaths and life-changing injuries on our roads by 2040 and alongside partners, ae committed to reducing the number of fatal and serious collisions on our roads, ensuring everyone can travel safely.