Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal – A major road safety operation in Newcastle has resulted in the arrest of 53 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol over two consecutive days.
On Saturday, traffic authorities arrested 32 individuals during intensified patrols as part of the ongoing #NenzaniLaEzweni Operation. Despite the high number of arrests and the public warnings that followed, a further 21 motorists were arrested on Sunday for the same offence.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, confirmed the latest arrests and emphasised that law enforcement agencies were not relenting in their efforts to curb drunk driving.
“They think the Road Traffic Inspectorate team is playing games. Despite arresting 32 motorists in Newcastle yesterday, they are still reckless. A total of 53 motorists have been arrested. RTI and SAPS will arrest even more again,” MEC Duma stated.
The joint operation involves Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) officers and members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) conducting roadblocks and heightened patrols in and around Newcastle.
All 53 arrested individuals now face charges of driving while under the influence of alcohol. They are expected to appear in the Newcastle Magistrate’s Court soon.
Authorities have reiterated that the #NenzaniLaEzweni festive season campaign will continue with zero tolerance for reckless and drunken driving across the province.
