The Ministry of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation has issued a new directive that outlines the procedure police officers must follow when inspecting drivers suspected of operating vehicles under the influence of narcotics.

The directive, which came into effect on September 1, was issued under Section 151 of the Motor Traffic Act.

According to the new rules, a police officer can refer a driver for testing if there is a reasonable suspicion of drug use based on the driver’s behaviour, speech, movements, or physical appearance.

The directive specifies that approved testing equipment is to be provided to police officers for these tests, which must be conducted at a police station or another suitable, private location.

If a driver refuses to provide a sample, they must be immediately referred to a government medical officer.

If the initial test is positive, the driver should be promptly sent to a government hospital for further examination, including providing a blood, urine, or saliva sample.

The final report from these tests will serve as the basis for legal action, which can be initiated by the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the police station or an officer authorised by the OIC.