Easter Drunk Driving Rates Spike Sharply

The scourge of drunk driving continues to haunt South Africa’s roads despite sustained law enforcement efforts

The recent Easter long weekend saw a significant surge in lawlessness, as the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) reported the arrest of 934 motorists across the country between Thursday and Saturday. This represents a worrying 39% increase in driving under the influence offences compared to the previous year.

“Arrests related to driving under the influence of alcohol increased by a staggering 39% as law enforcement officers intensified efforts to save lives,” said the RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane.

Beyond arrests, the RTMC took firm action by impounding 1 215 vehicles, a 31.6% rise from the 923 recorded during the same period last year.

“This indicates that more vehicles were transporting passengers without permits or in violation of permit conditions, as operators attempted to make a quick profit. There was a sharp decrease in unroadworthy vehicles, with discontinued vehicles declining by nearly 30%,” Zwane said.

He further urged motorists to cooperate with officials and comply with all rules, as it is always better to arrive home later than not at all. Law enforcement officers remain stationed on national and alternative routes to monitor the returning traffic flow.