NATIONAL NEWS - Provincial Traffic Services maintained a high-visibility presence across the province over the past week, resulting in 65 arrests for serious offences.
Between 13 and 19 April, officers stopped more than 30 000 vehicles as part of ongoing operations targeting high-risk behaviour.
The Western Cape Government takes road safety seriously and will continue implementing interventions and vehicle checkpoints to ensure that all road users can travel safely.
Of those arrested, 39 motorists were charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. The officers also dealt with incidents involving interference with law enforcement, including two arrests for resisting arrest on Saturday, a man at the N7 Vissershok Weighbridge and another involving a motorcyclist near Somerset West.
On Sunday, a man driving a minibus taxi was arrested near the Garden Route Mall on the N2 after allegedly threatening violence against a traffic officer and harm to their relatives and/or property.
In a separate incident, a man driving a bakkie was arrested for excessive speeding (112km/h in an 80km/h zone) at the Beaufort West Weighbridge on Friday, highlighting ongoing reckless behaviour on major routes.
Further arrests included two incidents involving the illegal possession of Cape lobster (crayfish tails). On Monday, a man was arrested on the R43 near Bot River for being in possession of 101 crayfish tails valued at R12 654, without a permit.
In a second incident on Friday, a man was arrested on the N2 near Grabouw for being in possession of 50 units of crayfish tails valued at about R5 000.
Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku expressed concern over the ongoing unsafe behaviour on the roads and the rise in pedestrian fatalities. “The 39 drinking and driving arrests show a continued disregard for the law and for human life. Equally concerning is the hostility towards traffic officers who are working to keep our roads safe.
"This behaviour, together with the high number of pedestrian fatalities recorded this week, is why our enforcement efforts remain firm. With the payday weekend approaching, we urge drivers to think carefully about their choices. Do not drink and drive, plan ahead, and prioritise your safety and that of others.”
Tragically, 26 crashes were recorded during the reporting period, which resulted in 28 fatalities. Of these, 18 were pedestrians, highlighting a serious risk to vulnerable road users.
Enforcement outcomes:
- 7 176 fines issued for driver and vehicle fitness offences
- 17 vehicles impounded
- 152 unroadworthy vehicles removed from service
- 354 speeding offences recorded
The authorities maintain that every intervention, from roadside checks to arrests, helps make roads safer. Residents and visitors are urged to follow the rules of the road, avoid driving under the influence, and stay alert, especially in areas with high pedestrian activity.
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