A monthlong all-Wales campaign led by Dyfed Powys Police administered more than 9,000 breath tests and more than 190 drug wipes.

In the campaign, which ran from June 10 to July 10, 306 breath tests from a total of 9,532 were recorded as positive, refused or failed to provide while of the 199 roadside drug tests, 131 showed positive.

The offence of drinking alcohol or taking drugs and driving is one of the ‘fatal 5’ - the five offences that can lead to death or serious injury on our roads. The others being careless driving, speeding, not wearing a seatbelt and driving while on a mobile phone.

During the campaign Gwent Police carried out 1,004 breath tests with 51 testing positive, refusing or failing to provide. They also carried out 65 drug wipes, with 39 being positive

Dyfed Powys Police administered 2,751 tests of which 68 tests were positive, refused or failed to provide. They also carried out 23 drug wipes, with 11 being positive.

Dyfed Powys Police Assistant Chief Constable Pam Kelly said, “This campaign identified a significant number of motorists in Wales who continue to ignore this important legislation around drink and drug driving.

“Although this was a month-long focussed campaign, the drive to change attitudes, increase road safety and catch offenders will continue year round.”

Chair of Road Safety Wales Susan Storch said, “We were clear in our messages throughout the campaign that drink or drug driving is not acceptable, and will not be tolerated. The police services also made effective use of the new legislation under Section 5a and made some significant arrests during the campaign period.”

Gwent Police Inspector Huw Jones added, “With the drug driving law and swab kits we now have an increased ability to catch drivers breaking the law and as a result make our roads safer. However it’s disappointing to see that, with both drink and drugs, people are still taking such risks behind the wheel.

“Our officers will continue to patrol the roads in Gwent on a daily basis and take positive action against offenders to make our roads safer for everyone.”