Drunkards and drug drivers in the trade fair park: Police draw harsh conclusions!

Drunkards and drug drivers in the trade fair park: Police draw harsh conclusions!

Large-scale alcohol and drug controls are causing a stir in Cologne's traffic scene. On July 4, 2025, a total of 185 vehicles were checked in the exhibition park on Luxemburger Straße between 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The emergency services placed particular emphasis on the safety of the roads and the well-being of all road users. That's what she reports Rhine newspaper from a total of six vehicle drivers from whom blood samples had to be taken because they were under the influence of amphetamines and cannabis.

Overall, the inspection went without any major incidents. Nevertheless, numerous administrative offenses were identified. The law enforcement officers issued 79 warnings. In addition, defects were found in 35 vehicles, ranging from small dents to safety-relevant defects. Things became particularly serious for four drivers who had to walk home because they didn't have a driver's license. The sea of ​​numbers also began for the police: in two cases, criminal charges were filed due to the lack of insurance on the vehicles. A driver was able to leave the checkpoint for a payment of 831 euros because there was an arrest warrant against him.

The legal consequences

The consequences for the affected vehicle drivers are significant. The consumption of illegal drugs such as cannabis or amphetamines on the road is already a misdemeanor, even if no symptoms of impairment can be observed. According to the Police advice This can lead to fines of up to 1,500 euros and a driving ban of one to three months. If this endangers other road users or even causes accidents, this will result in serious penalties, which can range from fines to imprisonment.

Drug use is particularly bitter for novice drivers: in addition to fines and points in Flensburg, the probationary period is extended by two years. When the costs for additional training, drug screenings and administration fees add up to more than 2,000 euros, the shock often has far-reaching consequences for many drivers.

Road safety in focus

The check in the exhibition park was a clear indication of how serious the police are about road safety. Thanks to modern testing equipment, drugs can be detected quickly and efficiently in the body, helping to make the streets safer. Despite the defects identified in the vehicle fleet and the warnings received, this was a successful operation for the police without any major traffic disruptions.

Such checks are important in order to draw a clear line and reduce potentially dangerous situations on the road. In a city like Cologne, where traffic is often chaotic, we have to be particularly vigilant and do everything we can to ensure that the streets remain safe for everyone.