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The PSNI South Area Commander Chief Superintendent Norman Haslett has released an Easter statement wishing everyone in the Districts of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon, Newry, Mourne & Down, Fermanagh & Omagh and Mid Ulster a safe and enjoyable Easter. The statement is in full below.
"As we approach the bank holiday weekend many of us will be getting ready to visit loved ones, take a few days away or make a day trip to one of our local beauty spots. Before we head out on our journeys it is so important to remember that each of us has a role to play in making sure we can all complete those journeys safely.
"So far in 2026 twenty people have been killed on Northern Ireland’s roads. Of those, half – that’s 10 local people - have been tragically lost on South Area’s roads.
"These are shocking statistics; but more than that, each one represents a family devastated, a community left reeling from loss.
"Too many people are dying on our roads and it's crucial that we all work together to make sure those numbers don’t climb any higher.
"Before you set out this Easter, take a few minutes to think about how you want your journey to end - each of us wants to get home safe.
"Driving requires your full and undivided attention and so our advice is to always pay attention to the Fatal Five: don’t drink or take drugs and drive; slow down and do not exceed the posted speed limit and drive appropriate to the road conditions; don’t be careless; always wear your seat belt and never use your mobile phone or any device that distracts you while driving.
"Local police officers will be on duty across our districts over Easter, working hard day and night to ensure that every one of us can enjoy the break and make it to our destinations safely.
"We hope you have a safe, fun and happy Easter."
