During the night of December 25, the City of Buenos Aires carried out alcohol‑testing operations at more than 30 checkpoints. Officers enforced a zero‑alcohol limit for professional drivers and a 0.5 g/l threshold for private drivers. The results were stark: licenses were held, and vehicles were towed.
One of the most discussed incidents involved a driver who recorded 1.25 g/l—twice the permitted limit—and tried to justify herself by citing proximity to home to avoid detention. In another case, a professional driver recorded 0.48 g/l and was surprised, asking whether the use of Listerine or olive oil could have altered the sensor. A driver with a 0.07 g/l result also expressed astonishment, asking if mouthwash or even olive oil could affect the reading.
"Does Listerine do that?"
"They asked me to bring them."
Vehicles were towed and drivers were escorted on foot while police returned the keys.
