The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has expressed concern about the number of motorists who continue to drive under the influence of alcohol.
Between July 15 and 21, a total of 145 individuals were apprehended by JMPD officers in operations conducted throughout the City of Johannesburg.
JMPD spokesperson, Superintendent Xolani Fihla, said driving under the influence of alcohol was a serious offence that not only puts the driver at risk, but also endangers the lives of innocent people on the road.
Fihla said the consequences of drunk driving could be deadly, leading to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.
He warned: “The JMPD maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards drunk driving. We urge all motorists to act responsibly and never get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. There are plenty of alternative options available, such as using public transportation or e-hailing services or designating a sober driver. Let us all work together to make our roads safer for everyone.”
Meanwhile, the N12 Freeway in Lenasia, south of Joburg, was earlier closed in both directions between Abu Baker Asvat Drive and K43 Klipspruit Valley Road due to protest action by residents of Nana’s Farm Informal Settlement, over service delivery issues.
The situation is reported to be tense, but police were on the scene and managed to contain the protesting crowds.
Earlier, Fihla said the K43 had been reopened for traffic, but Abu Baker Asvat Drive remained closed.
He said the closure had caused significant traffic disruptions in the area, with motorists diverting from these closures onto alternative routes, including Impala Road, Protea Boulevard, and Wildchestnut Street in Protea Glen, as well as R554 and Golden Highway in Lehae and Olifantsvlei.
“Motorists are advised to exercise caution and consider using alternative routes such as R554 Nirvana Drive, Golden Highway, K43 Klipspruit Valley Road, Main Road in Eldorado Park, Impala Road, and Chris Hani Road through Soweto,” Fihla said.
According to residents, the protest action was due to lack of water in their area.
“As children we don’t have water to bath and go to school, we don’t have food, that is why we are fighting for electricity and water,” said a young protester.
Another man was heard saying: “We did vote, now we want water.”
The Star