Unlicensed driver caught with drugs in Kaohsiung, refuses drug test

A man driving without a license in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, was stopped by police for failing to wear his seatbelt. During the stop, officers discovered illegal drugs concealed within the vehicle. The driver's refusal to undergo a rapid drug test led to further legal complications.

Police officers observed the 42-year-old man, identified by the surname Sun, driving without a seatbelt. As officers approached, Sun attempted to hide items in the driver's seat. He was subsequently ordered out of the vehicle, where police found a packet of "yili-mian" (a type of sleeping pill), weighing 8.87 grams. Sun was also found to be driving without a valid license.

When requested to perform a saliva drug test, Sun refused. Authorities proceeded with a mandatory urine test to determine if he was driving under the influence of drugs. The traffic violations alone carry substantial penalties. Refusing a drug test can result in a fine of up to NT$180,000 (approximately $5,500 USD), vehicle impoundment, and license revocation.

Additional penalties include fines for not wearing a seatbelt (NT$1,500) and for driving without a license (NT$36,000 to NT$60,000). The total fines could reach NT$241,500 (approximately $7,300 USD). His license plates were also suspended for two years, and his driver's license was revoked.