Impaired drivers are the target of a new counter attack strike, launched Monday night by the West Shore RCMP, the Victoria Police Department, Saanich Police Department, the CRD's Integrated Road and Safety Unit (IRSU) and ICBC.

Monday saw simultaneous roadblocks across Greater Victoria, including one set up during the dinner hour on Six Mile Road between Thetis Lake and Island Highway. Officers were specifically on the lookout for alcohol and/or drug-impaired drivers.

Two separate road blocks were set up on the West Shore, with extra officers on duty to help kick-off the counter attack campaign. This initiative saw one three-day immediate roadside prohibition handed out, one 24-hour suspension due to drugs, and one 24-hour suspension due to alcohol.

"We want to take impaired drivers off the roads and also promote prevention and deterrence," said West Shore RCMP spokesman Const. Alex Berube.

He said the detachment's officers are always watching for impaired drivers, but the extra initiative will last through July.

Police will also continue to enforce the Motor Vehicle Act during the roadblocks. A number of tickets for other offences were issued Monday, for infractions ranging from driving without insurance to failing to display an 'N' sign.

Impaired driving is the leading cause of car crash fatalities in B.C., and counter attack programs have been running throughout the province for the past 35 years.

katie@goldstreamgazette.com