Taoyuan Police Arrest Drugged Driver Who Crashed Into Patrol Car

Taoyuan City police launched a city-wide "Thunderous Sweep" operation on Friday evening, focusing on crime hotspots and areas prone to incidents, with a particular emphasis on combating drunk and drugged driving. The operation involved increased patrols, inspections, and road checks.

During the sweep, officers from the Longgang Police Station in Pingzhen Precinct observed a man, identified by the surname Zhang, driving against traffic on Longnan Road. When police attempted to stop him, Zhang's vehicle slid and collided with a police patrol car. Although the police vehicle sustained no damage, officers immediately ordered Zhang out of his car for inspection.

Zhang exhibited signs of disorientation and abnormal behavior. A rapid saliva drug test revealed a positive result for etomidate. Police also discovered an e-cigarette containing etomidate near the driver's seat. Following the incident, Zhang was arrested and sent for prosecution on charges related to drug abuse and endangering public safety.

In a separate incident during the same operation, officers from the Wuling Police Station in Taoyuan Precinct stopped a 64-year-old man surnamed Wu riding a motorcycle without license plates. The man appeared visibly nervous, sweating profusely. It was discovered that his motorcycle's plates had been suspended since April due to a previous drug-driving offense. He also tested positive for drugs in a saliva test, prompting officers to lament the lack of lesson learned.

The Daan Police Precinct also conducted inspections in areas with a history of crime or potential for public safety issues. The precinct chief, Su Mao-chih, reported that in August alone, they had apprehended 16 individuals for fraud, 35 for dangerous driving, 19 for drug offenses, 38 fugitives, and 37 for other criminal cases. He pledged to continue strengthening law enforcement efforts.