Police from the Southern Region targeted regional road users during a two day traffic operation focused on road rule compliance.

Operation Chrome 2 began at midnight on Friday, November 25 and ended at midnight on Saturday, November 26.

Officers from Local Area Commands, with assistance from the Traffic and Highway Patrol, were out in force targeting road users on regional roads.

During the operation, officers carried out 4700 random breath tests, and 31 drivers were charged with drink driving.

Police also issued 186 traffic infringements for speeding and other offences throughout the operation.

Commander of The Hume Local Area Command Acting Superintendent Andrew Koutsoufis said that the despite the increased police presence, there were still too many drivers caught putting themselves and others at risk.

He said the operation was conducted because of the increased death toll on the roads. “It is disappointing to see that despite all of the warnings and with the increased number of police on the roads, there were still drivers taking unnecessary risks.”

Operation Chrome will continue over the following months, with an increased presence on rural roads throughout the holiday period.

“Our officers will not hesitate in arresting or fining those who can’t obey the law,” he said.

Acting Superintendent Koutsoufis there was simply no excuse for any behaviour that put a driver or others at risk.

“If you think because you are on a back country road you will be able to get away with breaking the law, think again. All we want is for people to arrive home safely to their families,” Acting Superintendent Koutsoufis said.