15 people arrested in Southend in one day for drink and drug driving crackdown

Police arrested 15 people in Southend in just one day as part of a special roads policing operation.

On Saturday 16 August, Essex Police roads officers carried out a dedicated day of action across the city, stopping motorists suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Several of those arrested were also found to be driving without a licence or insurance.

An Essex Police spokesperson said:
“Our roads are meant to connect communities, support local economies, and keep people moving safely. But when individuals choose to misuse them – whether by driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, speeding, or using vehicles to commit crime – they put lives at risk and undermine the safety of everyone around them.

“That’s why our roads policing officers are committed to proactive patrols that not only enforce traffic laws but also disrupt criminal activity. Their work is vital in making Essex a safe place for all.”

Drug driving on the rise

Police say drug driving is now just as common as drink driving in Essex, with officers reporting a surge in arrests. One in three fatal crashes investigated in the county has a drugs element.

Adam Pipe, Head of Roads Policing in Essex, warned:
“Drug drivers tell my officers they don’t think they’ll get caught. The reality is we’ve more than 500 officers trained to use drug wipes so you’re actually more likely to get caught than ever before.

“Drug drivers also tell us that taking drugs is part of their lifestyle, part of their daily routine. What they don’t realise is that drugs stick around in your system.

“Even if you don’t look or feel stoned you could still be over the drug driving limit, and if you’re stopped and drug wiped you’ll be arrested.

“Drugs are illegal so you shouldn’t be taking them anyway, but if you are going to please don’t get behind the wheel.”

Essex Police’s Roads Policing team focus on the ‘Fatal Four’

The Southend operation formed part of Essex Police’s wider efforts to crack down on the Fatal Four – the four behaviours most likely to cause death or serious injury on the roads:

• Speeding
• Drink and drug driving
• Not wearing a seatbelt
• Using a mobile phone while driving

The roads policing team also continues to target uninsured vehicles. Officers say these drivers are often linked to wider criminal activity, and their vehicles are more likely to be involved in collisions. Removing them from the roads reduces risk for law-abiding drivers.