TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Taichung City Police Department began a five-day crackdown on drunk driving beginning on Tuesday (March 26).

Police reported 8,183 drunk driving incidents in 2023, including 31 deaths and 1,434 injuries, per Liberty Times. For this reason, the Taichung police mounted its second major anti-drunk driving campaign of the year, running from March 26–30, ahead of the upcoming Tomb Sweeping Day holiday.

Taichung Deputy Mayor Cheng Chao-hsin (鄭照新) accompanied Taichung Police Commissioner Lee Wen-chang (李文章) at a roadside checkpoint in Xitun District, expressing his appreciation for the hard work of police officers. He reminded the public to abstain from alcohol when getting behind the wheel and warned that drunk driving will not be tolerated, per UDN.

Cheng reminded everyone that drunk driving is a crime and urged everyone to uphold the importance of safe streets. He said police officers have shown a tireless commitment to enforcing road safety and thanked others for spreading the message about the dangers of drunk driving.

Lee said the campaign against drunk driving is being carried out by 15 precincts that are deploying up to 20 to 24 police officers. Lee hoped that citizens would take notice and abide by the law.

The Taichung police warned of the consequences of drunk driving, such as license suspension, heavy fines, and possible jail sentences.