SEVENTEEN people have been caught and charged for driving under the influence of liquor over the weekend.
Police Commissioner Matthew Varley this week said, 17 drivers last weekend alone makes him angry and sad that people are still not getting the message.
“…and people are still willing to take other people’s lives in their hands with irresponsible behaviour,” Mr Varley said.
“Last weekend our traffic operation department here in Honiara is able to conduct another operation and that involve checking vehicles, licenses drivers and also Random Breath Testing (RBT).
“Over the two days we conducted over 232 vehicles checks and of those 232 vehicle checks, another 17 drivers were found to be over the legal limit of alcohol in their blood and were subsequently charged.
“So that is 17 people out on our roads in Honiara last weekend driving under the influence of alcohol or drunk,” Mr Varley added.
Mr Varley said as in the past few months, two young innocent people, a young boy and a young girl lost their lives on the side of the road because of a drunk driver.
“I said it before, don’t drink and drive.
“If you are going to have a drink, make sure someone else drive the vehicle for you.
The police chief added that he also told communities, chiefs and also families that if they see their friend, wantok, loved one or work mate about to get into a car after they had been drinking, he wants them to step in and say something.
“I want you to stop them.
“Take the keys away from them, have a conversation and tell them what they are doing is dangerous and irresponsible and help us prevent more deaths on our road,” Mr Varley further added.
He said 17 people charged with drink driving in weekend is just way too high.
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
