Singapore’s Traffic Police clamp down on drink-driving with a festive period blitz on December 23rd, just before the Christmas celebrations.
The Singapore Traffic Police took to the streets in a stern enforcement blitz targeting drink-driving. Police roadblock was set up near Republic Avenue towards East Coast Parkway near midnight on Dec. 22.
The roadblock saw 56 motorists undergo breathalyzer tests. 17 individuals, including seven women, failed the test and got arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Singapore enforces a stringent legal alcohol limit, allowing just 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood or 35 micrograms per 100ml of breath. Nonetheless, post-pandemic Singapore has witnessed a troubling uptick in drink-driving offences, with over 1,600 arrested in 2022 and 170 drink-driving related accidents, including 10 fatalities.
First-timers caught under the influence of alcohol face a one-year jail term, a fine up to $10,000, or both. Those with prior offences risk a lifetime driving ban, as the law clamps down hard on repeat offenders.
The Traffic Police’s advice is clear: avoid driving to locations where alcohol is on the agenda. They advocate for alternative transportation, suggesting the public make use of taxis or public transport to ensure safety for themselves and others on the road.
For those who must drive to their drinking venues, they are encouraged to engage valet services to take the wheel or appointing a sober friend to drive them home safely.
