THE final results from Operation Dragonfly – the summer crackdown on drink and drug driving – showed 108 people were arrested in Surrey and to date, 66 have been charged.

The figures come as a result of the five-week campaign by Surrey and Sussex Police to put the brakes on motorists who take to the road under the influence of intoxicating substances.

The 2016 initiative ran for a week longer than previous projects (Monday, June 6-Sunday, July 10) to include the period covering the UEFA football championships.

During the last Christmas drink-drive campaign, which ran for the same length of time, 76 people were charged.

Despite the slight drop in the number of people facing charges, Inspector Alan Nicholls, of the Surrey and Sussex Roads Policing Unit, said there was no time for complacency.

He said: “The figures demonstrate no matter what time of year it is, some drivers continue to still take risks and get behind the wheel while under the influence of drink or drugs.

“Some motorists just think they are above the law and can get away with it – but I want them to think how they would feel if it was their child who was injured or indeed killed as a result of a person drink or drug driving.

"We work hard to hit home the message that drink or drug driving will not be tolerated and the consequences that such actions could have on our roads.

“Officers acted on intelligence, carried out dedicated patrols and stop checks across the county during the operation but ultimately it is up to the individual and those who are aware of behaviours to take responsibility.

“I implore people to be sensible and if you are a witness to drink or drug driving to take the right action and report drivers to police.

“One thing is for sure – if you are caught driving under the influence of drink or drugs you will be dealt with robustly. This includes a minimum of a 12-month ban and can include heavy fines, community sentences and in some cases time behind bars. The risk on all counts really isn’t worth it.

“I hope the number of arrests made during the campaign serve as a wake-up call. Our officers are out there 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you drink or drug drive, it’s only a matter of time before you’re caught and put before the courts.

“The summer campaign may have come to an end, but that doesn’t mean our efforts to take drink and drug drivers off the roads have.

“As a community we need to work together. If you know someone who regularly drink or drug drives, please do the right thing and pass on the information. You could help save a life.”

Information can be passed via text, phone, email or the Surrey Police website. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 – you will not have to give your name, make a statement or appear in court. Any information will be passed on to traffic officers and acted upon.