News

North Wales Police has made their first arrest under new drug driving legislation that came into force this week. At 8pm last night (Thursday March 5) police were called to a damage only road traffic collision on Newry Beach in Holyhead. Officers attended and tested the 19-year-old driver using the new drug-testing equipment.

He was then arrested on suspicion of drug driving and taken to police custody for further tests. He has since been released on police bail pending further enquiries. The new legislation came into force on Monday March 4 and now sets legal limits for how much of a substance – both illegal drugs and prescription medications motorists can have in their system whilst driving.

A new device, which has also been approved, now allows officers to test at the roadside using a swab from inside the driver’s mouth, to see if a motorist has taken cannabis or cocaine.

Sergeant Jason Diamond from the Roads Policing Unit said: “Whilst this is the first arrest under the new law it won’t be our last. Our message remains the same – don’t get behind the wheel under the influence of drink or drugs, it’s not worth the risk.”

Anybody who may have information relating to drug drivers should contact North Wales Police on 101 or alternatively Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.