The Northern Territory Police Force has concluded Operation Hopkins, a high-visibility road safety operation along some of the Territory's most remote areas.
Led by the Territory Road Policing Division, the operation was developed to reduce the incidence of serious and fatal crashes through enforcement, education, and engagement, while targeting the movement of illicit substances and alcohol into the Northern Territory.
Operation Hopkins involved a coordinated effort with officers from the Territory Road Policing Southern Division, the Dog Operations Unit, the Tennant Creek and Barkly Division, Tennant Creek Investigations, Crime Division, and the Drug and Organised Crime Division delivering roadside enforcement and engagement at the QLD Border, in cooperation with Queensland Police.
Between Thursday 14 and Saturday 16 August the operation resulted in:
- 439 breath tests conducted, with zero positive results for drink driving.
- 118 drug driver tests, resulting in six positive detections.
- Three arrests and four Notices to Appear in court.
- Eight Traffic Infringement Notices issued.
- Four Drug Infringement Notices issued.
A quantity of dangerous drugs, alcohol, and cash were seized, including cannabis, methamphetamine, MDMA, ketamine, steroids, kava and other powdered substances which will be forensically tested. Furthermore, numerous bottles of alcohol destined for restricted areas were also seized, as well as $7,550 in cash and a number of gold bars.
Acting Senior Sergeant Aaron Evans said, "It was pleasing that we did not detect any drivers for drink driving, however it was incredibly disappointing there were some driving with prohibited drugs in their body.
"It was also very frustrating that some individuals were caught attempting to bring illicit substances and alcohol into our vulnerable communities.
"Operation Hopkins is a reminder that NT Police will continue to be anywhere at any time, targeting drivers that choose to make selfish and reckless choices when getting behind the wheel."
