Fifty motorists arrested in late-night drunk driving blitz
According to the department, Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) officers conducted a targeted enforcement operation in the three South Coast areas, where motorists suspected of driving under the influence were stopped, tested, and arrested.
Fifty motorists in Park Rynie, Umzinto, and Scottburgh ‘woke up’ in police custody after being arrested for drunk driving during a late-night road safety operation by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport on Friday, last week.
According to the department, Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) officers conducted a targeted enforcement operation in the three South Coast areas, where motorists suspected of driving under the influence were stopped, tested, and arrested.
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Officials said the arrested drivers were taken in for fingerprinting after allegedly failing breathalyser tests. In a statement shared by the department, RTI officers were said to have remained professional but firm while carrying out the operation.
The enforcement drive was carried out under the banner of #NenzaniLaEzweni, a road safety campaign aimed at curbing reckless and irresponsible driving.
KZN Transport MEC, Siboniso Duma, confirmed that the operation was not limited to the South Coast and had also been executed in other parts of the province on the same night.
He said further updates on arrests and outcomes from the broader operation would be shared with the public.
The Department of Transport has repeatedly warned that drunk driving remains one of the leading causes of fatal crashes in the province, particularly during holiday periods and over weekends.
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Authorities have vowed to intensify roadblocks, patrols, and compliance checks in high-risk areas to improve road safety and reduce alcohol-related accidents.
“Lawlessness on our roads will not be tolerated,” the Department of Transport said, reiterating its commitment to protecting road users and holding offenders accountable.
