A DOZEN people have been arrested following a weekend police operation targeting dangerous drivers across South Devon.

The operation, which took place in late June, saw officers make 19 traffic stops in Torquay, Dawlish, Ivybridge, Totnes, South Brent and Newton Abbot as part of efforts to reduce road casualties.

Four drivers were arrested on suspicion of drink driving and a further four for drug driving.

Two people were arrested for fail to stop and dangerous driving offences, while two others were arrested in connection with burglary.

Police also dealt with one offence of disqualified driving, one offence of driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence and two offences of possession of cannabis.

One vehicle was seized, one driver was reported for offences and four motorists were given words of advice.

South Devon Patrol Inspector Wes Watkins said: ‘We had a busy Friday and Saturday evening into the early hours with focused activity on the offences which make up the Fatal Five.

"’Most road collisions are caused by human error, with only a small percentage caused by unavoidable issues, such as mechanical failure’.

The Fatal Five are the leading causes of serious injuries and deaths on the region's roads: speeding, failing to wear a seatbelt, driving while distracted, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and driving while unfit through fatigue, poor eyesight or ill health.

Inspector Watkins urged motorists to plan ahead if they intend to drink alcohol, avoid driving when tired and ensure they are fit to drive before getting behind the wheel.

The operation was supported by the Devon & Cornwall Police Roads Policing Team, Armed Response officers and volunteer Special Constables.

Police said enforcement would continue throughout the summer as part of the Vision Zero South West partnership, which aims to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on the region's roads.