Police from the Southern Region targeted regional road users. ‘Operation Chrome 2’ began at midnight on Friday, November 25, and ended at midnight on Saturday, November 26.

During the operation, officers conducted 4700 random breath tests, with 31 drivers charged with drink driving; and issued 186 traffic infringements for speeding and other offences.

Hume Local Area Command’s acting Superintendent Andrew Koutsoufis said there were still too many drivers caught putting themselves and others at risk despite increased police presence.

“The operation was conducted because of the increased death toll on the roads,” he said. “It is disappointing to see that despite all of the warnings and with the increased number of police on the roads, there were still drivers taking unnecessary risks.

“Operation Chrome will continue over the following months, with an increased presence on rural roads from now, right throughout the holiday period and our officers will not hesitate in arresting or fining those who can’t obey the law.

There was simply no excuse for any behaviour that put a driver or others at risk, he said.

“If you think because you are on a back country road you will be able to get away with breaking the law, think again. All we want is for people to arrive home safely to their families.”