Drink-driving crackdown launched in Aberdeen

Police have launched a crackdown on dangerous driving, drink driving and speeding. Picture: PA

The new offensive - “Operation Whitebeam” - follows a rise in the number of deaths and serious injuries on the city’s roads. Figures for 2013 show that between 1 April and 31 July, 41 people were killed or seriously injured on Aberdeen’s roads, compared with 38 for the same period last year.

As part of the crackdown the number of dedicated roads police officers in Aberdeen is to be trebled from five to 15.

Chief Superintendent Adrian Watson, the area commander, said: “Police Scotland has listened to the communities across Aberdeen who have highlighted that road safety is a key priority to them. With that in mind, we are to see an increase in specialist road policing resources come into the city as part of our commitment to safer roads. Operation Whitebeam will be the all-encompassing road safety strategy for Aberdeen to address road safety issues as well as tackling the anti-social use of vehicles and car crime.”

He continued: “One of our main priorities within Aberdeen City is keeping both road users and pedestrians safe by targeting anti-social and irresponsible driving and this will be a key focus under Operation Whitebeam.

“Of particular concern to me is the small number of individuals who joyride in our communities. These people have absolutely no concern for other people’s safety, or their own, and this is something that must stop. We will continue to target these people who are a blight on society.”

Assistant Chief Constable Derek Penman, who has responsibility for local policing in the North of Scotland, praised the offensive. He said: “I welcome this pro-active initiative to highlight the importance of road safety in Aberdeen. Aberdeen is already one of the safest cities in Scotland to live and this initiative will show that road safety continues to be a focus and will ensure that Aberdeen’s roads are amongst the safest also.

“Police Scotland officers will also be working alongside Aberdeen City Council’s City Wardens and this operation is another example of partnership working to keep people safe.”

Councillor Martin Greig, chairman of the Aberdeen Community Safety Partnership said: “I am delighted that Police Scotland has given such support to what is a very real local priority to the communities of Aberdeen. The Community Safety Partnership is recognised as one of the strongest in the country and will continue to support Police in Aberdeen with this key area of our business.”