SINGAPORE – In a dramatic enforcement operation, 34 motorists aged between 24 and 63 are set to face charges on December 19 for drink driving offenses.

These individuals were arrested between August and December after failing breathalyser tests, as confirmed by the police on December 18.

Repeat Offenders of Concern

Among the accused, two are repeat offenders. A 36-year-old and a 44-year-old were halted by the authorities during routine checks on September 30 and November 5, respectively. Both men were discovered to be driving under the influence, raising serious concerns about road safety.

Severe Punishments for Repeat Offenders

Repeat offenders in Singapore face severe punishments. Fines can soar up to $20,000, and jail terms may last up to two years. The legal ramifications aim to deter such reckless behavior, particularly during festivities when alcohol consumption tends to rise sharply.

Additional Charges for Reckless Parking

In addition to the drink driving charges, two motorists, aged 52 and 33, face an additional accusation for leaving their vehicles in positions that caused undue inconvenience to other road users. The police reported that these men fell asleep behind the wheel after a night of drinking, leaving their cars stationary in hazardous locations along Airport Road and Brickland Road. Such negligence not only obstructs traffic but can also lead to dangerous situations for other drivers.

Significant Penalties for First-Time Offenders

For first-time offenders, the penalties are still significant. Individuals convicted of drink driving for the first time may face fines up to $10,000 or a jail sentence of up to 12 months, or a combination of both. Those charged with obstructive parking may incur additional fines of up to $2,000 or a potential three-month jail term.

Public Safety Reminder from the Police

The police issued a stern reminder to the public, emphasizing that driving under the influence is "dangerous and irresponsible." They urged anyone planning to drink to utilize public transport services or arrange for a designated driver to ensure everyone's safety on the road.

Statistical Context and Call for Responsibility

As the year-end celebrations approach, the police have reiterated the importance of adhering to traffic laws to prevent accidents. In a sobering statistic, police reported 10 fatalities from 123 accidents attributed to drink driving in the first nine months of 2024, highlighting the grave consequences of such behavior. Additionally, over 1,260 individuals were arrested for drink driving during this period, underscoring a troubling trend that calls for greater awareness and responsibility among motorists.

Stay Safe During Festivities!

Stay safe this festive season and remember: a night of fun shouldn't lead to a lifetime of regret!