Operation Voltair Targets Road Safety

In an aggressive push to curb traffic offences during the festive season, the North Brisbane District (NBD) has initiated Operation Voltair. Launched on October 17, this operation aims to rigorously enforce road safety laws, focusing on the ‘fatal five’ driving offences which include speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction.

On its first night alone, the operation saw law enforcement conduct 855 roadside breath tests and 11 roadside drug tests, resulting in 16 charges. Among these, six individuals were apprehended for driving under the influence of alcohol and three for drug-impaired driving. Additionally, 28 traffic infringement notices were issued, signaling a firm approach to traffic law enforcement.

High-profile cases already emerging from Operation Voltair include a 26-year-old man from Griffin, who was nabbed driving three times over the legal alcohol limit, and a 47-year-old from Mount Nebo, caught driving twice the legal limit. These incidents underscore the persistent issue of drunk driving despite ongoing public safety campaigns.

Inspector Matthew Blunn of the NBD expressed concern over the fatalities and accidents despite a reduction from previous years. He emphasized the district’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against traffic violations, aiming for a fatality-free record. “Motorists in Brisbane’s north can expect to see police out on proactive patrols and at static enforcement sites targeting driving offences for the rest of the year,” Blunn stated.

This operation is part of a broader strategy to enhance road safety, which includes various targeted initiatives throughout the year. As the holiday season approaches, the police urge the community to adhere strictly to traffic laws to ensure a safe end to the year for all road users.