Driver arrested near Ballymena after police stop car with tyre worn to the cords
Thursday 24 September 2026
A driver has been arrested near Ballymena on suspicion of being unfit through drink or drugs after police stopped a vehicle which they say was also being used in a dangerous condition.
The stop was made in the Lettercreeve area on Wednesday afternoon, 23 September, after officers from Ballymena District Support Team spotted what police described as a moving road traffic offence while on mobile patrol.
Tyre condition highlighted by police
Following further investigation, police said the driver was arrested on suspicion of driving while unfit through drink or drugs and using a vehicle in a dangerous condition.
Police also released a photograph showing what they described as an example of the vehicle’s condition. The image shows a tyre with severe wear and areas where the underlying cords appear to be exposed.
Road safety warning issued
In a message to motorists following the stop, police urged people never to get behind the wheel while under the influence of drink or drugs and to ensure their vehicles are maintained in a safe condition.
Police said:
“We would urge all road users to never drive whilst under the influence of drink or drugs, and also to please keep your vehicle in a good and safe condition.
“We want to make sure all road users make it home safely.”
Ballymena District Support Team operates across the Mid and East Antrim policing district, with officers carrying out proactive work on issues affecting local communities.
The incident serves as a reminder that drivers are responsible not only for being fit to drive, but also for ensuring the vehicle they take onto the road is in a safe condition.
