The New Year got off to a good start with only a handful of people arrested over the long weekend.

A total of 11 people were charged including six people charged for driving under the influence of alcohol, the remaining five were charged with drunken disorderly in public places.

Acting Police Commissioner, Auapaau Logoitino Filipo said that while the numbers have decreased compared to the Christmas week, their goal is ensure that drivers who are under the influence do not get behind the wheel.

He added the Ministry continues to appeal to members of the public to be mindful on the danger of driving while impaired.

Adding that when one is behind the wheel while intoxicated it could possibly end up in a car crash that will your life in danger as well as pedestrians.

He added: “if someone drives drunk and survives a crash that injures or kills other people, they must live with the consequences.

“That emotional burden can be worse than any bodily harm.

Drunk driving is as prevalent as it is lethal.”