Drivers will be asked to stop at roadblocks for random breath tests after the new strategy against drink-driving is introduced early next year. Chief Superintendent Michael Demaid-Groves said the force would need 120 breathalysers for the tests, each costing HK$1,000. The tests would be conducted randomly at roadblocks in the initial stage, he said, adding that police would review the policy to extend its application later. Such operations would normally be carried out under the supervision of a sergeant. 'Random tests mean they will be done on an entirely indiscriminate and arbitrary basis, and without specific reference to the day, time or location, and with no regard to the type of vehicle or driver,' said Mr Demaid-Groves. He said the breathalysers would indicate within five seconds whether a driver had exceeded the limit of 22 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath. Further breath tests would be required when offenders were detected. Under amendments to the Road Traffic Ordinance passed in June, first-time offenders, unless they have compelling reasons, will be automatically banned from driving for at least three months. Repeat or serious offenders will face a two-year disqualification and up to three years in jail. Junior Police Officers' Association chairman Chung Kam-wah said introduction of the new initiative would increase the workload of frontline officers in the early stages.
