Concerns raised over a number of motorists arrested for drunken driving

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The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has raised concerned over the number of motorists arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol in recent times.

Since the beginning of the month, a total of 85 motorists were apprehended for endangering their own lives and the lives of others on our roads.

Metro police spokesperson, Superintendent Xolani Fihla, reminded motorists that driving under the influence is a serious crime with severe consequences.

He also said alcohol impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination, significantly increasing the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

“The JMPD maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards drunk driving. We urge all motorists to act responsibly and never get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol.

“If you plan on drinking, designate a sober driver or utilize alternative transportation options such as e-hailing services or public transportation,” he added.

Fihla stated that they will continue to conduct roadblocks, intensify patrols, and enforce laws to make roads safer for everyone.

Meanwhile, more than 1000 suspects were apprehended in North West operation Shanela.

According to provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Funani, the suspects were amongst others, arrested for rape, murder, assault GBH, malicious damage to property, burglary residential and business premises, possession of drugs, theft out of / from motor vehicle and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 

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“Of the 1 042 arrested suspects, 555 were wanted for contact crimes like murder, attempted murder, rape, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, assault common, house robbery and business robbery.

“While 408 were held during Detectives suspect raiding operations. Additionally, 45 suspected undocumented persons were taken in for processing,” she explained.

Lt Col. Funani highlighted that the arrests were effected through execution of several actions, which included stop and searches, roadblocks, patrols, vehicle check points, visiting and inspecting of licensed liquor premises, Second-hand goods dealers, tracing of wanted suspects and many others.