On Sunday night, the AP-68 highway in La Rioja became the scene of a dangerous incident: a 35-year-old man without a driver’s license took the wheel of a stolen car and drove 52 kilometers against the flow of traffic. His reckless actions caused real panic among motorists, who were forced to take emergency measures to avoid a car driving head-on into traffic.
Emergency services began receiving alarm calls just before midnight. Witnesses reported a car heading towards Zaragoza—but in the lane intended for Bilbao-bound traffic. Between kilometer markers 86 and 138, highway police and Guardia Civil patrols launched a large-scale operation to try to prevent potential accidents and protect other drivers.
Thanks to coordinated action, road services managed to block the dangerous section and prevent any collisions. The perpetrator was apprehended at kilometer 138, still driving at speed despite the risks. A check revealed he had no license, and the car was listed as stolen. Moreover, his blood alcohol level was nearly four times the legal limit, and he refused to take a drug test.
The detainee faces several criminal charges, ranging from document forgery and car theft to driving under the influence and refusing a drug test. He is also accused of reckless driving and using someone else’s identification. The following day, the man was handed over to the judicial authorities.
Thanks to the quick response of other drivers and the prompt actions of road services, tragedy was averted. This incident is a reminder of the importance of staying alert on the road and the responsibility of every driver.
