145 drunk driving arrests made in the past week
Johannesburg MMC for Public Safety Dr Mgcini Tshwaku, has warned residents and motorist against drinking and driving following the arrest of more than 145 drivers this past week.
In a statement on Tuesday, Tshwaku said he was deeply concerned by the increase in number of drinking and driving incidents as underlined by the arrests made between July 15 and 21.
“Drunk driving is the leading cause of road fatalities. I urge motorists to be vigilant and if they have exceeded the legal alcohol limit driving, to seek alternative transportation to reach their destinations safely without endangering themselves or others,” he said.
The MMC commended law enforcement agencies for ensuring safety on the roads.
“Dr Tshwaku commends the outstanding efforts of JMPD in upholding road regulations and ensuring safety of all road users. Furthermore, he emphasise s the city’s zero tolerance policy towards drunk driving, cautioning individuals found violating this regulation will be subject to arrest,” the statement read.
In April, during the launch of the city’s Easter weekend campaign, Tshwaku promised to come down hard on motorists who drink and drive. At the time, Tshwaku who was launching the City of Johannesburg’s Easter Road Safety Campaign, said, “We want roadblocks everywhere; Sandton, Midrand and Rosebank, and ensure that our people are safe. Once individuals see police visibility they tend to be disciplined.”
The Star