RCMP commence holiday checkstops

Manitoba RCMP are reminding the public they’ll be out in full force on roadways across the province to ensure drivers are travelling safe and sober this holiday season.

All detachments and traffic services units in Manitoba will participate in this year’s Selective Traffic Enforcement Program, which runs Dec. 1 through Jan. 1, Manitoba RCMP said Friday in a release.

Last year’s program saw more than 11,700 vehicles come through 262 checkstops. A total of 105 people were charged with impaired driving-related offences, while 30 were handed roadside suspensions. Five people died in traffic-related collisions.

This year’s program will once again focus on detecting and apprehending impaired and high-risk drivers.

"The RCMP is committed to ensuring the safety of everyone traveling on Manitoba roads and educating the public in safe driving practices continues to be our priority," Insp. Chris Moore, officer in charge of "D" Division traffic services, said.

"We are doing our part by raising public awareness about road safety and conducting traffic enforcement programs, (and) the driving public have to do their part by adjusting their driving habits to make Manitoba's roads safer."