Police disrupted anti-social road activity across Manawatū overnight, issuing dozens of infringements and making three arrests during a large-scale operation targeting dangerous driving behaviour.
Operation Purple, which involved officers from Whanganui, Taranaki, Wellington, and Hawke’s Bay, focused on central Palmerston North and surrounding areas including Feilding.
The operation aimed to prevent gatherings of disruptive road users and reduce harm.
Police conducted 250 breath tests, with four drivers over the limit, issued 58 infringements, impounded four vehicles and suspended two licences. Nine vehicles were stickered for safety or compliance issues.
Three people were arrested: a 28-year-old man for allegedly throwing a bottle at a police vehicle; a 33-year-old man for failing to stop at a checkpoint, driving over the alcohol limit, and having outstanding matters; and a 21-year-old processed for excess breath alcohol, pending blood test results.
Police said early intervention and high visiblity were key to preventing large gatherings and further disruption.
Manawatū area prevention manager Inspector Ash Gurney said the operation sent a clear message to anyone participating in antisocial road user behaviour.
“We are ready and waiting, and you can expect us to take action anywhere, anytime.”
Police urged the public to report anti-social road activity by calling 111 if it was happening now or ringing 105 if it was after the fact.