Eight drivers found under influence in Skopje night checks; four detained

During the night of 17/18 October 2026, between 21:00 and 03:00, the Mobile Unit for Traffic Safety from the Sector for Traffic Affairs carried out intensified checks across the municipalities of Ilinden, Gazi Baba and Kisela Voda in Skopje, the Ministry of Internal Affairs reported.

Results of the operation

Officers identified eight drivers who had been operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol. Three of those were detained for the criminal offence of "reckless driving" under Article 297‑a of the Criminal Code after tests showed alcohol levels above 1.50 ‰.

One additional person was detained for the same criminal offence under Article 297‑a because they were driving without a valid driving licence. Authorities said appropriate misdemeanour and criminal charges will be filed against all perpetrators.

“During the checks eight drivers were found who had been driving under the influence of alcohol, of which three were detained for committing the criminal offence 'reckless driving' under Article 297‑a of the Criminal Code, because they were found to have alcohol above 1.50 ‰.

Additionally, one person was detained for committing the criminal offence 'reckless driving' under Article 297‑a of the Criminal Code, because they drove a motor vehicle without a driving licence.

Appropriate misdemeanour and criminal charges will be filed against all perpetrators.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs will continue intensified action controls in the coming period in order to increase traffic safety and protect the life and health of all traffic participants.

We appeal to all drivers and road users to strictly respect traffic rules and regulations, not to drive under the influence of alcohol and to contribute to safer roads with their responsible behaviour,” the Ministry of Internal Affairs said.

Photo: press material from the event