Costa News Spain reports on the local police in Mijas testing drivers for drug abuse.

Mijas police has just purchased 420 state-of-the art drug tests to detect the presence of narcotics in drivers.

This is to improve safety and reduce accidents. Nationally, in 2024 police will find more positive drug tests in drivers who are over the limit than in those who are not. This marks a shift in random on-the-spot tests.

The new ‘Drogotest’, as it has been dubbed, will be used on Mijas roads and at random checkpoints, especially during alcohol and drug campaigns organised by the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT). These campaigns are intensified during key times of the year such as the summer, when local fiestas are held, and Christmas to discourage those who are tempted.

The main causes of fatal traffic accidents in Spain are distractions, speeding, or substance abuse. Mijas Council is also purchasing 300 additional tests per year to address this issue. The aim is to carry out more rigorous checks and ensure the results are accurate.

If a driver is found to be positive during the initial test, then a confirmation test can be performed. This second sample will then be sent to an expert laboratory for a more precise analysis. If it comes back positive, the driver will be faced with a fine that could reach €1,000 or more and the loss of six points off their licence.

The local police of Mijas carried out more than 25,000 vehicle checks in 2024. The result was 306 fines issued for exceeding the limit of alcohol, 328 complaints filed for speeding, and 92 inquiries into possible safety violations.

Drive carefully. The local police force in Mijas is sure to be excited to try out the new technology.