Gwent Police breathalysed 6,000 motorists during its Christmas drink drive crackdown.
The four week campaign ran from December 1 2011 to January 1 2012.
Across Wales, 27, 744 breath tests were administered resulting in 545 (2%) being positive, failed or refused.
The all Wales campaign was led by Gwent Police.
Gwent’s Road Policing Chief Inspector, John Pavett said: “This campaign gives us the opportunity to bring the issue of drink driving to the forefront of people’s minds at a time that is synonymous with parties, socialising and people potentially increasing their intake of alcohol. It is impossible to judge how much alcohol one person can consume before legally and safely getting behind the wheel to drive, so as always, our message is simple, if you drink don’t drive and if you drive, don’t drink!
“From the results we can see that the majority of drivers in Wales are responsible and law-abiding but it is still disappointing that there are those few who continue to ignore the law and potential dangers of driving when under the influence. The consequences of this behaviour can be devastating and far reaching. Those convicted are likely to face a lengthy driving ban, could lose their jobs and possibly face imprisonment.
“Although this is only a four week campaign, our work in this area to enforce and educate will continue 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.”
- In Gwent a total of 6003 tests were carried out, 55 (0.9%) were positive, failed or refused.
- In South Wales a total of 6663 tests were carried out, 272 (4%) were positive, failed or refused.
- In Dyfed Powys a total of 5571 tests were carried out, 123 (2%) were positive, failed or refused.
- In North Wales a total of 9507 tests were carried out, 95 (1%) were positive, failed or refused.
- In Wales a total of 5 arrests under section 4 (those driving while under the influence of drugs or drink/drugs) were made during the campaign period.