Manning-Great Lakes Police conducted more than 4500 random breath tests and issued 80 infringements as part of a high-visibility traffic operation targeting drug and drink-driving and heavy vehicle compliance checks, NSW Police say.
Officers from Manning-Great Lakes Police District, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, the Dog Unit, and Roads and Maritime Services conducted an operation from Tuesday (13 November 2018) to today (Thursday 15 November 2018) on the Pacific Highway at Glenthorne, about 8km south of Taree.
Police conducted more than 800 random drug tests, more than 4500 random breath tests and stopped 265 heavy vehicles for inspection.
Two people were charged with drink-driving and 22 people tested positive to roadside drug tests. During the operation, 80 infringement notices were issued, and three heavy vehicle offences detected along with seven defect notices issued.
About 1am today, a 27-year-old driving a Holden Commodore sedan allegedly tested positive to a roadside drug test. During a search of the vehicle, officers allegedly located MDMA capsules, methylamphetamine, a flick knife and an extendable baton.
The 27-year-old man and his passenger, a 28-year-old man, were arrested and taken to Taree Police Station where they were both charged with supply prohibited drug and possess prohibited drug.
The younger man was also charged with possess prohibited weapon (x2).
Manning-Great Lakes Police District Commander, Detective Superintendent Shane Cribb said police will be conducting these types of operations in the near future.
"Operations such as these aim to remove heavy vehicles and drug and alcohol affected drivers, that are a potential hazard or pose a threat, off our roads," Detective Superintendent Cribb said.
"If you decide to get behind the wheel after one too many drinks, or after taking an illicit substance, the onus is on you, and police will eventually catch up with you."
