YAHK, B.C. - BC Highway Patrol officers removed nine impaired drivers from Kootenay highways during a coordinated two-day operation on Highways 3 and 95 near Yahk, the RCMP says.
On October 23 and 24, 2026, officers from BC Highway Patrol Cranbrook and Nelson ran the enforcement operation near Yahk, in the province’s southeast corner. It was part of a larger collaborative effort involving multiple partners, with the Highway Patrol focusing on criminal interdiction and road safety, including identifying and removing drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs.
The results, released November 4, included:
- One repeat impaired driving offender arrested, facing recommended Criminal Code charges
- Three drivers issued 90-day immediate roadside prohibitions
- Two drivers issued 3-day prohibitions
- Three drivers issued 24-hour prohibitions, including one involving drug impairment
- Eight vehicles impounded for between 3 and 30 days
In total, officers laid 44 charges during the operation, including charges for a prohibited driver and two drivers travelling at excessive speeds of more than 40 km/h above the posted speed limit. Officers also seized illegal contraband tobacco during two separate incidents.
“Removing nine impaired drivers from our highways is a significant result. Every impaired driver we remove represents a potential tragedy prevented,” said Sergeant Brett Reiben with BC Highway Patrol Cranbrook. “Our primary goal is to improve road and public safety. Working alongside our partners allowed for a strong and visible enforcement presence on our highways.”
BC Highway Patrol reminds motorists that impaired driving is entirely preventable: plan ahead, arrange a safe ride, and never operate a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Similar initiatives will continue throughout the Kootenay region. The recommended charges against the arrested driver have not been proven in court.
(Source: BC Highway Patrol, November 4, 2026)
You Might Like
