Crackdown Continues: Taiwan's Kaohsiung City Intensifies Efforts Against Drunk Driving

Following tragic accidents, Kaohsiung City in Taiwan doubles down on enforcement, netting dozens of drunk drivers in a two-day blitz.

In response to two fatal drunk driving accidents occurring within three days around Mother's Day, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, has significantly increased its efforts to combat drunk driving. Mayor Chen Chi-mai has expressed his strong disapproval, demanding rigorous enforcement from the police.

The Kaohsiung City Police Department initiated a three-day city-wide crackdown on May 12th. Following the apprehension of 26 drunk drivers on the first day, the second day, May 13th, saw an additional 35 arrests, demonstrating the ongoing challenge of preventing drunk driving.

From May 12th to May 14th, the Kaohsiung City Police Department, involving all 17 precinct stations across the city's 38 administrative districts, has been conducting these extensive operations. Enforcement focuses on areas and times known for drunk driving incidents, including intensified patrols during the night and early morning hours. Increased surveillance is also being conducted near establishments like bars, pubs, nightclubs, KTVs, hot pot restaurants, and construction sites, along with increased road checks and mobile patrols.

On the second day of the operation, at approximately 8:54 PM in Fengshan District, a 56-year-old man, identified as Mr. Huang, was stopped for a traffic violation. Upon inspection, the officers detected alcohol on his breath, and a breathalyzer test revealed a blood alcohol content of 0.60 mg/L, exceeding the legal limit.

Later, around 11:30 PM, in Sanmin District, a 37-year-old man, Mr. Wu, was found driving a Tesla vehicle that had stopped in the middle of the road at a green light. After repeated attempts to get his attention, Mr. Wu rolled down his window, appearing disoriented and with a strong odor of alcohol. A breathalyzer test indicated a blood alcohol content of 0.84 mg/L, above the legal limit. Both cases have been referred to the Kaohsiung District Prosecutors Office for investigation, under the charge of endangering public safety under the criminal law.

Huang Yuan-min, the head of the Kaohsiung City Traffic Police Department, stated that law enforcement efforts against drunk driving will be unwavering and ongoing. Furthermore, with the recent occurrence of serious accidents caused by drunk driving, the police will intensify vehicle stops and checks. The public is urged not to take chances and to utilize public transportation, taxis, designated drivers, or professional driving services after consuming alcohol, to ensure the safety of themselves and other road users.