The Western Cape Traffic Department has been on high alert on all major routes across the province this holiday season. Over the past week alone, traffic officers apprehended 106 drivers on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.
In addition, more than half of the traffic fatalities (14 out of 25) were pedestrians involved in accidents. In a statement, Western Cape Mobility MEC Ricardo Mackenzie says he personally observed one of the suspected drunk drivers bypassing a roadblock, driving onto a pavement, and subsequently getting arrested.
“This irresponsible and reckless behaviour puts all other road users at risk”
Mackenzie says officers have been diligently at work, conducting checks on over 50,000 vehicles throughout the province. In addition to making 157 arrests for various offences, they issued 17,561 fines, impounded 47 vehicles, and permanently removed 229 vehicles from the roads.
As schools reopen and people return to work, Mackenzie urged all road users to prioritize safety and responsibility during their travels.
“We need everyone to take extra care, be patient, and abide by the rules of the road for their own safety and the safety of those around them. Please buckle up, don’t drink and drive, don’t speed, take regular rest breaks, and don’t take unnecessary risks! It’s not worth it.”
READ MORE: Week 1 of 2024: Cops keep busy with busts
