On December 21, the Singapore Police conducted an unusual anti-drink driving operation on the Central Expressway (CTE) in the early hours, targeting motorists leaving the city after 2 AM. This initiative was part of an extensive islandwide crackdown on drink driving, following statistics showing that drink driving had caused 10 fatalities in the first 10 months of 2024.
The roadblock, located just before the Jalan Bahagia exit towards Ang Mo Kio, closed two lanes of the four-lane expressway and caused a tailback over a kilometer long. The delays frustrated some motorists, leading to honking that disturbed nearby residents.
The police justified the roadblock, emphasizing the necessity of conducting such operations on expressways to deter offenders effectively. According to the authorities, this was the first time in over a decade that a roadblock had been set up on an expressway.
Bernard Tay, chairman of the Singapore Road Safety Council, explained that the operation targeted year-end partygoers who might try to evade detection by using expressways. He noted that these operations require significant resources but send a strong message that no area is exempt from enforcement.
The operation lasted from 3:45 AM to 5:20 AM and saw 74 motorists tested for alcohol consumption. Twelve individuals, aged between 31 and 58, were arrested, including 11 for drink driving and one for driving without a valid license and insurance. Among them was a 45-year-old man who not only exceeded the alcohol limit but was also driving while under disqualification, with his wife and child in the car.
The highest recorded alcohol level was 60 micrograms per 100 milliliters of breath, nearly double the legal limit of 35 micrograms. Superintendent of Police Lian Weixiong highlighted the severe consequences of drink driving, stating that it destroys lives and families. He reiterated the Traffic Police's zero-tolerance policy during the festive season.
This operation comes a month after the launch of the annual Anti-Drink Drive Campaign in November, aimed at raising awareness during the year-end festivities. The campaign involves collaborations with around 600 food and beverage, nightlife, and entertainment establishments, as well as messages displayed on electronic boards along main roads and expressways.
Statistics reveal a worrying increase in drink-driving accidents, with cases rising from 175 in 2022 to 180 in 2023. By October 2024, 142 incidents had been recorded, including 10 fatalities.
Drink-driving offenses in Singapore carry heavy penalties, including fines ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 12 months for first-time offenders. Repeat offenders face harsher penalties, including fines of up to $20,000 and imprisonment for up to two years. Offenders may also lose their driving privileges.
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