Indiana State Police troopers from the Bremen Post increased patrols across northern Indiana last week as part of a targeted enforcement effort aimed at improving roadway safety ahead of the summer travel season.

The initiative, known as “Operation Blue Thunder,” took place Friday, May 1, and focused on heavily traveled stretches of U.S. 31 and U.S. 30 within the Bremen District. Both corridors are known for high traffic volumes, particularly as seasonal travel begins to ramp up.

Law enforcement officials say May marks the start of increased roadway activity, driven in part by Memorial Day travel and events surrounding the Indianapolis 500, which draws visitors from across the country and around the world.

Troopers concentrated enforcement efforts on speeding and aggressive driving-two of the most common complaints reported on those highways. Authorities say those behaviors are also frequently linked to serious and sometimes fatal crashes in the region.

Lt. Tony Slocum, commander of the Bremen District, emphasized the shared responsibility of roadway safety.

“As the summer travel season approaches, the Indiana State Police want to remind motorists that safe roadways are everyone’s responsibility,” Slocum said. “Please buckle up, drive sober, and avoid any distracting behaviors.”

During the operation, troopers issued 68 tickets and 174 warnings, and made seven misdemeanor arrests.

State police say similar enforcement efforts may continue throughout the summer as traffic volumes increase.