Over 100 Drivers Arrested for DUI During Traffic Operations in Western Cape

In a rigorous effort to improve road safety and clamp down on the dangerous practice of driving under the influence (DUI), more than 100 individuals were arrested in the Western Cape for suspected inebriated driving over the past week. These arrests are part of a broader initiative to curtail reckless behavior and enhance visibility of law enforcement on the roads.

Western Cape officials conducted an extensive operation where 45,302 vehicles were stopped and checked, leading to the issue of 14,993 fines for various infringements. The drive to increase road safety is spearheaded by the MEC for mobility, Ricardo Mackenzie, who cautioned against the underestimated effects of alcohol on driving capabilities. The MEC emphasized that no amount of alcohol is too small when it comes to compromising judgment and motor skills. To bolster this stance, Mackenzie urged individuals who consume alcohol to employ alternative transportation methods to ensure they and others reach home safely.

The importance of these measures is underscored by the grim statistics recorded by the Western Cape Mobility Department. In just the span of the past long weekend, 17 pedestrians and 14 passengers were killed in traffic incidents. It is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of individuals on the road, highlighting the amplified risks that come with driving under the influence, not only for drivers but for passengers and pedestrians alike.

Law enforcement agencies conducted 320 integrated roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, and speed control operations between December 18th and December 26th. These efforts led to the impoundment of 31 vehicles and discontinuation of 234 vehicles for being unroadworthy. In addition, a staggering number of 374 speeding offences were recorded. Sadly, during this enforcement period, 31 crashes occurred, culminating in 37 deaths including drivers, motorcyclists, passengers, and pedestrians.

In Cape Town alone, the enforcement agencies made 403 arrests. A total of 65,765 transgressions were noted, including the issue of 24,333 fines. Out of the arrested motorists, 68 were charged for DUI, with another facing charges for reckless and negligent driving.

Beyond the provincial numbers, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has reported that more than 1,738 vehicles across South Africa were discontinued for being unroadworthy since December 1st. Over 4,160 motorists have been arrested for offences including drunk driving, producing false documentation, or contravening public transport operating permits.

These figures and enforcement activities highlight the ongoing challenges and the continued efforts by traffic authorities to enforce road safety. As the festive season typically sees a spike in road use and unfortunately, associated accidents and fatalities, these enforcement actions are crucial for deterrence and the safety of all road users.