Police warning ahead of England World Cup clash as 120 drivers arrested during summer campaign
- LM News
- 41 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Leicestershire Police are urging football fans to plan their journey home ahead of England's World Cup match on Saturday after 120 people have been arrested so far as part of the summer drink and drug drive campaign.
Officers say the figures show too many motorists are still getting behind the wheel after drinking alcohol or taking drugs, with arrests continuing across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland throughout the tournament.
Since the campaign began, 89 people have been arrested on suspicion of drink driving, 21 on suspicion of drug driving and ten for failing to provide a sample.
Fifty arrests have been made in Leicester, with a further 18 in Charnwood, 14 in North West Leicestershire and 11 in Blaby.
More than a quarter of all arrests followed road traffic collisions, including one driver who was nearly four times the legal alcohol limit!
Police are also reminding supporters that they can still be over the limit the morning after drinking. Fourteen motorists were arrested between 5am and midday during the campaign.
Those arrested range from younger drivers to pensioners. Nearly one in five were aged 24 or under, while the oldest person arrested was 82. Sixteen women have also been arrested during the operation.
Chief Inspector Jodie White, from Leicestershire Police's Specialist Support Department, said: "With England playing this weekend, many people will be meeting friends and family to watch the match and hopefully celebrate.
"Our message is simple – enjoy the football, but don't risk getting behind the wheel if you have been drinking alcohol or taking drugs.
"Whether you're watching the game at home, in a pub or at a social event, plan ahead. Arrange a designated driver, book a taxi, use public transport or stay overnight if necessary.
"These arrests show that drink and drug driving remains a significant problem, and our officers will continue to be out on patrol targeting those who put lives at risk on our roads."
The summer drink and drug drive campaign runs until Sunday 19 July, with roads policing officers continuing enforcement activity across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.