Drug-driving enforcement intensifies with more than 2,700 arrests in January

More than 2,700 drivers were arrested for drug-related offences in January, according to the Police Traffic Management and Road Safety Division, marking a significant increase compared to the 427 arrests recorded during the entirety of 2025. Authorities state that the rise reflects intensified enforcement operations, expanded roadside inspections, and closer coordination with medical authorities.

Authorities said they had adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards drug-impaired driving and that weekly mobile inspection programmes were being conducted in major transport hubs, including Pettah, Panadura, and Moratuwa. Suspected drivers are referred for formal medical examination, and in collaboration with the National Transport Medical Institute, authorities now have access to a mobile laboratory facility where urine samples can be tested scientifically and documented in accordance with legal standards.

The substances most frequently detected include cannabis and cocaine. Authorities said they had also identified cases involving heroin, crystal methamphetamine commonly known as “ice,” and certain types of pharmaceutical tablets, with each case processed under the relevant legal provisions.

Officials said the enforcement drive coincides with the implementation of the National Transport Commission (Amendment) Act No. 8 of 2025, which strengthens the regulatory authority of the National Transport Commission over inter-provincial passenger transport. The amendment provided clearer powers to take action not only against drivers and conductors but also against permit holders, and officials said criminal liability may extend beyond the driver in serious cases.

Separate road safety checks carried out on April 26 by Keighley’s Neighbourhood Policing Team in partnership with Operation Steerside led to 17 offences being recorded. The offences included drug driving, seatbelt violations and the use of a mobile phone while driving, with one person arrested for driving over the limit for drugs.

The operation formed part of Operation Spotlight 2026, a national initiative led by the National Police Chiefs’ Council targeting the “fatal four” offences: speeding, mobile phone use, seatbelt non-compliance, and drink or drug driving. Police said eight people were reported for travelling without a seatbelt, one driver was reported for using a mobile phone while driving, one driver was reported for driving without a valid MOT, one driver was reported for contravening a red traffic light, two drivers were reported and their vehicles seized for no insurance, and three tickets were issued for obstructive parking.