Central SA
Crackdowns to intensify as Easter exposes rising risks on SA roads─── ZENANDE MPAME 14:01 Tue, 07 Apr 2026
Law enforcement officers said the fight against drunk driving, unroadworthy vehicles, and illegal alcohol outlets will continue to be a top priority after the rise during Easter weekend.
Drunk driving emerged as a major concern over the Easter long weekend, with arrests for driving under the influence increasing by 39%. A total of 934 motorists were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, compared to about 670 in the same period last year.
The Easter period saw intensified policing through mobile and static checkpoints, supported by the national traffic police, on high-risk routes, including the N1, N2, N3, and N4.
Authorities also targeted pedestrian behaviour, particularly along highways, where pedestrians account for nearly half of all road deaths.
“The incidents of drunken driving have proven to be a major headache for law enforcement officers on South African roads over the Easter long weekend,” said Road Traffic Management Corporation spokesperson Simon Zwane.
“This has placed a number of pedestrians, passengers, and other motorists in danger, as alcohol impedes judgement and leads to crashes and fatalities on the roads.”
Drunk drivers
During law enforcement operations, 1,419 suspects were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. KwaZulu-Natal arrested the majority of drunk drivers with 588, followed by Mpumalanga with 199, and the Eastern Cape with 197 arrests.
Meanwhile, the number of vehicles impounded rose by 31.6%, with 1,215 vehicles seized compared to 923 during the same period last year. This increase suggests more operators were transporting passengers without valid permits or violating permit conditions in an attempt to make quick profits during the busy holiday period.
However, the number of unroadworthy vehicles declined sharply. Discontinued vehicles dropped by almost 30%, from 979 last year to 688 this year, indicating improved compliance with vehicle safety standards.
Beyond road safety, police also intensified efforts to combat crime linked to alcohol and drug abuse. National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe confirmed more than 500 illegal taverns and shebeens were shut down for violating the Liquor Act.
A total of 773 suspects were arrested for selling alcohol without valid licences, with KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga recording the highest numbers.
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