New Taipei Police's strict checkpoints net 53 drunk, drugged drivers on first day

New Taipei City police launched a significant crackdown on impaired driving, arresting 53 individuals on the first day of a special operation. The city mobilized 745 officers to set up checkpoints at 81 key locations across the city, focusing on both drug-impaired and drunk driving.

The operation yielded substantial results, with 45 drivers arrested for operating vehicles under the influence of drugs and 8 for drunk driving. Authorities also seized 53 vehicles involved in these offenses. The police emphasized their strong enforcement presence, aiming to deter illegal activities on the roads.

Beyond traffic violations, the checkpoints also served as a crime-fighting measure. During the extensive checks, police apprehended 26 fugitives wanted on various charges and 23 other criminal suspects. This integrated approach combined traffic enforcement with broader public safety efforts.

New Taipei City Police Chief Fang Yang-ning personally oversaw the operation. The police highlighted the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs like etomidate, often found in "zombie smoke bombs," which severely impair attention and perception, posing a grave risk to public safety. The department reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for drug-impaired driving and pledged to continue rigorous enforcement and upstream investigations to curb drug circulation and ensure road safety for citizens.