GMP reveals numbers of drink and drug drivers recorded over festive period

Police in Greater Manchester recorded an equal number of drink and drug driving offences during a month-long campaign which covered Christmas and New Year, with 570 arrests made in total. Among these, there were 259 arrests for drug-related offences, 259 for alcohol-related offences, and 67 individuals who failed to provide a sample.

The campaign, known as Operation Limit, ran from 1 December to 1 January and targeted drink and drug drivers across the region, including Rochdale.

Officers administered over 1,700 breath tests and more than 200 roadside drug wipes, aiming to prevent accidents and protect road users during the festive period.

Chief inspector Michael Parker from Greater Manchester Police’s Special Operations Branch highlighted the importance of the operation, saying: “Whilst the figures look alarming in the grand scheme of things, it showcases why we intensely and proactively patrol our road network daily to target those who get behind the wheel mainly whilst under the influence.

"We know the festive period increases the likelihood of this happening but want to make it clear that if you decide to break the law, you will have to face the full consequences for your reckless actions.”

Key figures from the campaign

• 88.4% of those arrested were male
• The most common age group among offenders was 28 to 37 years, accounting for 204 arrests
• A total of 585 offences were recorded, including combined drink and drug-related offences

Operation Limit forms part of a national policing strategy aimed at reducing road traffic collisions during celebrations, when impaired driving risks are higher.

Officers from the Roads Policing Unit and other departments worked across Greater Manchester, including Rochdale, using both enforcement and community engagement to tackle the issue.

Chief Inspector Parker urged communities to report concerns about impaired drivers: “If you are concerned for someone who is going to act irresponsibly, please contact us as we can take evasive action to put a stop to their actions.

"We rely on communities to keep engaging with our officers on your concerns, as we are determined to work with local councils and other key partners to make roads safer for all users, whether they are a driver, rider, cyclist, or pedestrian.”

Roadside checks will continue throughout 2025 at key locations to deter dangerous driving. The police also encourage residents to submit footage of reckless behaviour through the Operation Snap portal on the Greater Manchester Police website.

The efforts align with Greater Manchester’s Vision Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on roads by 2040. Rochdale residents are urged to support this vision by reporting unsafe driving and staying vigilant.

To report a drink or drug driver, call 101 or 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, reports can be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.