Northern Territory Police undertook significant efforts to ensure the safety of our roads through targeted campaigns throughout December.
During a traffic campaign in Alice Springs, which spanned from 2 to 9 December 2023, a total of 3175 drivers tested negative for alcohol. Of these, 7 tested positive for illicit substances. The campaign resulted in 5848 vehicle registration checks, 105 traffic-related apprehensions, 9 arrests, 13 notices to appear, 2 drug test positives, 79 traffic infringement notices, 23 total cautions issued, 14 defect notices and 32 directions to rectify orders.
In stark contrast, a traffic campaign in Darwin, conducted from 19 to 24 December 2023, witnessed a similar number of drivers tested negative (2926) but a significantly higher number of positive tests (21) for alcohol. The breakdown of results for Darwin includes 1285 vehicle registration checks, 76 traffic-related apprehensions, 33 arrests, 11 notices to appear, 4 drug test positives, 1 drug-impaired notice, 65 traffic infringement notices, 18 total cautions issued, 13 defect notices, 5 directions to rectify orders.
Senior Sergeant Paul Wood said, “Of particular concern is the notable difference in the number of arrests conducted during the Darwin operation, which is higher than that in Alice Springs. Additionally, the amount of drivers tested positive is 3 times higher in Darwin.
“It is important to highlight that the Darwin operation spanned only 6 days compared to the 8-day duration of the Alice Springs campaign. This discrepancy strongly suggests a concerning disparity in driver attitudes towards road safety in Darwin.”
“Throughout this festive season, police will continue to conduct targeted operations and patrols to address and deter dangerous driving behaviours. This includes but is not limited to speeding, driving under the influence, and distracted driving.
We urge all community members to play an active role in promoting road safety. This means obeying traffic laws, avoiding distractions while driving, and always designating a sober driver if alcohol is part of your celebrations.”
