Four suspected drug drivers were arrested by Dorset Police during a day of action in Weymouth and Dorchester.

Another was arrested on suspicion of "driving while unfit through drink or drugs".

One man stopped by traffic police was wanted by a neighbouring force 'in connection with a burglary' – officers duly handed him over, a spokesman said.

Traffic officers teamed up with colleagues from neighbourhood policing teams to carry out the operation.

More than 30 vehicles in total were pulled over by a team of marked and unmarked patrol vehicles during the crackdown, which a spokesperson said is part of an ongoing strategy to target motorists "suspected of posing a high risk" to fellow road users.

All of those arrested were males aged between their mid 20s to early 40s, from the Weymouth and Dorchester areas.

Penalties for individuals convicted of drug driving can range from a 12 month ban, or an unlimited fine or unpaid work, to imprisonment for up to six months.

Aside from the arrests, a further seven motorists were reported for minor offences, such as careless driving and vehicle defects, and one person was also given a penalty notice for possession of cannabis.

Inspector Joe Pardey, of the traffic unit, said: “This day of intensification was part of our proactive efforts targeting those we suspect of posing a risk to other road users, in a bid improve the safety of the county’s roads.

“As well as targeting those suspected of committing driving offences, the stopping of such a large number of vehicles also helps identify individuals linked to other types of crime and helps local policing teams build their wider intelligence picture in relation to issues such as county lines drug networks.

“We are planning more of these operations across the county and our Op Dragoon initiative will continue to identify those suspected of being high risk road users.

“This proactive work also relies on information from members of the public to help identify individuals suspected of regularly driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

“Anyone with information can visit www.dorset.police.uk, email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or call 101. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org. If you suspect someone is driving under the influence, dial 999 immediately”.