LATEST: Livestock lorry driver on Kildare road tests positive for cocaine

A professional HGV driver transporting livestock through Co Kildare in a fully laden articulated trailer failed a roadside drug test for cocaine.

The driver was arrested at the scene.

An Garda Síochána Kildare, alongside the RSA, Revenue Customs and Excise, Department of Social Protection, and the Health and Safety Authority, were carrying out multi-agency checkpoints across North and South Kildare.

A number of serious detections were made, including a vehicle that attempted to evade a checkpoint.

Kildare Gardaí said: "These detections highlight the dangerous disregard some road users have for traffic laws and public safety.

"We remain committed, in partnership with other agencies, to ensuring our roads are safe for everyone.

"Thank you to all the agencies involved for their continued cooperation and vigilance."

Meanwhile a motorist tried to evade a Kildare Garda checkpoint in recent days.

The vehicle was stopped shortly afterwards and the driver had no insurance and no tax and the vehicle had bald tyres.

The fuel tank also contained illegal green diesel which was detected by Customs Officers.

The vehicle was seized and multiple court proceedings will follow. 

ALSO READ: Portarlington driver gets 8 year road ban.

Elsewhere, Naas Roads Policing Unit conducted targeted operations in the North Kildare area in recent days.

One motorist tested positive for cannabis. The vehicle was seized, and court proceedings will follow.

Another driver was arrested in Donadea for drug driving.

Additionally, two more vehicles were impounded due to no insurance or tax. Court proceedings will follow.

A statement said: "An Garda Síochána Kildare continue to target dangerous driving behaviours to improve road safety for all."