69 motorists arrested despite heavy G20 deployment

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A total of 69 motorists were arrested across the City of Johannesburg for driving under the influence of alcohol during the period from Monday, 17 November to Sunday, 23 November.

​This period coincided with the successful hosting of the G20 Leaders’ Summit and associated events in Gauteng, which required a significant commitment of JMPD resources towards high-security traffic control, convoy escorts, and route protection operations.

​According to the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), these figures underscore the department’s unwavering commitment to general policing and road safety despite the additional major event duties.

​“The G20 Summit was a critical moment for the City’s public safety and international reputation, requiring a high contingency of our personnel to be deployed to route security and traffic management.

“However, even though a high contingency of our personnel were deployed to the G20, officers were able to continue to fight the scourge of DUI (Driving Under the Influence).

“This shows the dedication and resilience of our officers in protecting all road users,” said the JMPD Acting Chief of Police, Acting Commissioner Eldred Fortein.

Arrests highlight pronged strategy

​Fortein stated that the 69 arrests highlight the JMPD’s two-pronged strategy: ensuring the safety of international dignitaries while maintaining zero tolerance for lawlessness on major arterial routes and residential roads.

He added; “The Department confirms that all arrested individuals have been processed and are expected to appear in local Magistrate Courts this week.

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​”We further assure residents that JMPD remains committed to conducting integrated roadblocks and patrol operations to rid the city’s roads of dangerous and negligent drivers in the lead-up to the festive season.”