Actress Asavela Mngqithi Arrested After Allegedly Driving at 198km/h on KZN Highway

David Naidoo Published 21 hours ago

2 min read

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Actress Asavela Mngqithi has been arrested after allegedly driving at 198km/h in a zone where the speed limit was 120km/h on the N2 highway near Ellingham in KwaZulu-Natal.

According to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport, the actress was driving a BMW X3 SUV when traffic authorities detected the alleged speeding offence.

The reported speed was 78km/h above the prescribed limit.

Mngqithi, who is also known as Asavela Mqokiyana, is recognised for her roles in South African television productions, including Isibaya and Abomama.

Court Appearance

The actress appeared before the Scottburgh Magistrates’ Court on 19 October 2026 in connection with the alleged offence.

She is expected to return to court on Wednesday, 28 October 2026. The case remains subject to the legal process, and the speeding allegation should not be treated as a conviction.

Traffic Law Enforcement in KwaZulu-Natal

The arrest comes as traffic authorities continue enforcement operations across KwaZulu-Natal ahead of the festive season.

The provincial Department of Transport has warned motorists that traffic laws will be enforced during this period, with particular attention being paid to speeding and other offences that can endanger road users.

Department spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya said the arrest served as a reminder that authorities would take action against motorists who break traffic laws.

Speeding Charges Recorded During Enforcement Operations

The department also reported that Road Traffic Inspectorate teams and Operation Shanela recorded 421 speeding charges between 15 and 21 October 2026.

During the same period, 1,719 motorists were charged with various traffic offences.

These included 87 motorists who were charged with driving without valid driving licences and 141 who were charged with failing to wear seatbelts.

Authorities also impounded 140 vehicles for operating without the required permits.

The figures reflect a range of traffic violations recorded during the enforcement period, as officials continue efforts to improve compliance with road regulations.

The matter involving Mngqithi is expected to return to the Scottburgh Magistrates’ Court on 28 October 2026.