One in two nightclubs in Attica plays music too loudly or breaches its operating hours, police said yesterday, confirming the suspicions of many Athenians who live close to nightspots.

Based on the results of more than 1,000 noise readings conducted by officers last month, 532 nightclubs were discovered to be breaking the law.

In almost 400 cases, the nightclubs were playing music past the time allowed by their permits. Some 100 were found to play music above the legal sound level. In several cases, the clubs breached both rules.

Police said that 36 nightclub owners were immediately arrested and charged following the checks.

Officers also revealed they checked almost 9,500 cars during August in an effort to clamp down on drag racing. Three drivers were arrested.