Police will have a significant presence island-wide throughout New Year’s weekend.

Acting Superintendent Jerome Laws, in charge of the Bermuda Police Service’s Community Policing Division, said officers were prepared to “respond to and deal with calls for assistance by members of the public to incidents of crime or disorder” during the weekend.

Mr Laws added that people can expect police at the annual onion drop event in King’s Square on Sunday and Monday, as well as the Shield and Friendship Trophy football cup finals at St George’s Cricket Club, also on Monday.

He explained: “If you intend on attending any or all of these events, please be aware that there will be a heightened police presence to ensure safe enjoyment for members of the public.”

Mr Laws said police would take a “zero tolerance approach” to traffic offences, especially impaired driving, and that additional traffic and roadside sobriety checks would be in place.

The tests will run from tomorrow until January 2, and police urge motorists to comply with officers during these checks.

Mr Laws strongly discouraged people from consuming alcohol or any “mind-altering substance” before driving and advised them to make alternative plans for getting home if they intended to do so.

“As we’ve often stated, the life you save could well be your own,” he warned.

Mr Laws said police planned to “maintain order and provide reassurance to the public while they celebrate the coming new year”.

He continued: “We would much prefer there is compliance by members of the public rather than our officers having to arrest and charge anyone.

“However, when and where required, we will decisively address any acts of criminality or antisocial behaviour.

“We wish to take this opportunity to wish all residents of Bermuda a happy, healthy, safe, prosperous 2024, and we look forward to continuing to partner with you as we all work to make Bermuda safer.”