NSW Police have launched a high visibility traffic enforcement operation to target drug driving and minimise road trauma across the state.
Operation RAID (Remove All Impaired Drivers) will start at 12.01am on Thursday (7 May 2026) and conclude at 4am Sunday (10 May 2026), focusing on roadside testing to identify people who may be driving while affected by alcohol and drugs.
The operation will utilise high volume stationary roadside drug and alcohol testing to prevent, disrupt, and respond to impairment.
The operation will also focus on speeding, fatigue, distraction and recidivist traffic offenders on major and local roads.
Data indicates that 24 per cent of fatalities on NSW roads involve the presence of illicit substances.
During 2025 and 2026, one in 10 drivers who have been subject of roadside drug testing have been detected driving with the presence of illicit substances in their system.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley said Operation RAID was back because impaired driving was still killing people on our roads.
"Earlier this year, during Operation RAID, police conducted more than 121,000 breath tests and more than 9,000 drug tests – with 604 people allegedly returning positive drug samples and 167 drink-driving offences detected," Minister Catley said.
"This targeted operation means police will be out in force again. If you are doing the wrong thing, there is every chance you will be stopped, tested, and put before the courts.
"But do not forget: the responsibility starts with the person behind the wheel and the safest decision is also the simplest one: don't risk it."
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Driver, said the removal of impaired drivers from our roads will help reduce road trauma which carry such devastating consequences for families and whole communities.
"If you choose to drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you should expect to be stopped, tested and held accountable," Assistant Commissioner Driver said.
"We will not tolerate drivers who choose to put others in danger and we make no apologies for intervening before reckless behaviour turns into tragedy.
"During this operation, officers will be deployed where they are needed most. They will use high visibility patrols and intelligence led enforcement to identify and remove impaired drivers from our roads.
"Police have consistently run operations this year, particularly over the Easter and Anzac long weekends, to reduce road trauma.
"During Operation RAID and every day, drivers need to make good choices while behind the wheel."
