SEVERAL of the arrests for drug-driving offences made by the Roads Policing Unit over the weekend were in Flintshire.

Between Friday and Sunday, drug-drive arrests were made in Connah’s Quay, Bangor, Rhyl, Pwllheli, Bethesda, the A55 at Bretton, Bodelwyddan, Northop, the A483 at Pulford and Kinmel Bay.

A disqualified driver who tested positive for drugs was also found to be wanted, 

The 37-year-old from Amlwch, who is already disqualified from driving, was spotted on Treborth Road near to the Menai Suspension Bridge on Saturday evening and was stopped. 

He tested positive for cannabis at the roadside and it was also discovered that he was wanted on warrant.

He was released under investigation pending the results of further tests in relation to the drug drive however he was remanded to appear before court for the other offences.

He is one of many cases dealt with by the Roads Policing Unit over the last few days whereby several individuals have failed the roadside drugs and breath tests.

Also, a woman was arrested in Llanllyfni after she failed the roadside breath test. Officers were called shortly before 11.30pm on Saturday to a report of a damage-only collision. 

The 54-year-old local woman was charged and she will be appearing before Caernarfon Magistrates on September 3.

Meanwhile, a 25-year-old man from Cork in Ireland remains in police custody after being arrested yesterday morning (Sunday, August 3) following a road traffic collision in Shotton. 

He was arrested on suspicion of failing to provide a breath test and dangerous driving.

Inspector Nicky Collins of the Roads Policing Unit said: “Driving whilst under the influence of drugs – whether prescribed medication or illegal substances is just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. Not only is it a criminal offence but it is also completely unacceptable which puts lives at risk.

“Drugs can affect your mind and body in a variety of ways that mean you aren't able to drive safely. Not only that, the effects can last for hours or even days. Driving while under the influence of drugs can lead to slower reaction times, poor concentration, confusion, fatigue, being over confident which means you take unnecessary risks and erratic behaviour.

“The consequences of being caught can be life changing. Anyone caught faces a minimum 12-18 month ban and I would urge people to take a moment and think seriously about how that would affect your life; driving to work or college, childcare arrangements or school runs, socialising and visiting family. The impact of losing your licence is enormous. Worst still, you could injure or kill yourself or someone else. It simply isn’t worth the risk.

Inspector Collins added: “Patrols will continue as part of our ongoing commitment to keeping the roads safe for all and to provide a high visibility reassurance to our communities, and we will continue to take action against drivers who commit offences on our roads.”

If you suspect someone is driving while unfit to do so, please report it immediately to police on 101 (or 999 if they are posing imminent danger) or phone it through anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.