KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has called on residents and visitors to prioritise safety, vigilance, and tolerance during the Easter weekend.
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The Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has called on residents and visitors to prioritise safety, vigilance, and tolerance as the province experiences a surge in holiday traffic for the Easter weekend.
Authorities have reported a significant influx of holidaymakers, with traffic volumes rising sharply on key routes, including the N3 highway, where about 2,500 vehicles per hour have been recorded entering the province.
Ntuli urged all motorists travelling within and into KwaZulu-Natal to adhere strictly to road safety regulations. He emphasised the importance of ensuring vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on journeys and encouraged responsible driving at all times.
He also appealed to bus and taxi operators transporting congregants to Easter services and religious gatherings to prioritise passenger safety.
Ntuli called for thorough vehicle inspections before travel and urged long-distance drivers to rest adequately, comply with speed limits, and observe all road safety measures.
Issuing a stern warning against drinking and driving, Ntuli said law enforcement agencies would be deployed across the province. Road Traffic Inspectorate teams will be out in full force, with zero tolerance for alcohol-related offences, overloading, and unroadworthy vehicles. Offenders will face the full might of the law.
The Premier further made a strong appeal for peace during the holiday period, urging those harbouring grievances to avoid acts of violence.
“This Easter weekend must not be used as an opportunity to settle scores or pursue acts of revenge. I urge all those who may have differences to choose peace, restraint, and dialogue over violence.
"Let us build a province rooted in stability and harmony, conditions that are essential not only for safe communities, but also for attracting investment and growing our economy,” said Ntuli.
Ntuli also called on individuals in possession of illegal firearms to surrender them voluntarily to police.
“There is no place for illegal firearms in our communities. Those who are in possession of such weapons are urged to hand them over to law enforcement authorities before the police are compelled to act. Removing illegal guns from circulation is critical in reducing violent crime,” he added.
He stressed the importance of protecting vulnerable groups, particularly children, minors, and the elderly, during the Easter period.
“Parents and guardians must ensure that children and vulnerable persons are not left unattended. Their safety and well-being must remain a top priority at all times,” he said.
To bolster safety, Ntuli confirmed that police visibility would be increased across all districts to deter crime and ensure a secure environment for residents and visitors.
He also expressed appreciation to law enforcement and community safety stakeholders, including the South African Police Service, Metro Police, municipal law enforcement, and community safety structures for their efforts during the busy period.