On Saturday 18 November 2023, in the early hours of the morning, our Provincial Traffic Officers intercepted a bakkie carrying 900 kg of cannabis with an estimated value of R 7 167 200.00 during a joint operation with the Crime Intelligence unit of the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The bakkie was pulled off the N1 at the Meirings Park crossing in Worcester and found to contain compressed bags of cannabis packed inside a large container on the back of the bakkie. The two occupants of the vehicle were arrested by the SAPS.

The teams were ready and waiting for this significant shipment of an illegal substance thanks to a tip-off received in October. The success of the smartly planned operation is also a demonstration of the power of collaborative enforcement.

We consistently see dedication and results from our Provincial Traffic Services and I commend the four Officers who supported the SAPS in this operation. This hard work combined with cutting-edge technology makes the Western Cape a safer place.

Results from WC Provincial Traffic Services – 13 to 19 November 2023

Provincial Traffic Inspectors conducted 325 integrated roadblocks, vehicle check points and speed control operations; and stopped and checked 35 823 vehicles across the Western Cape. A total of 10 585 fines were issued for various traffic violations ranging from driver to vehicle fitness. Twenty vehicles were impounded and 197 were discontinued for being found to be unroadworthy.

A total of 275 speeding offences were recorded, with the following highest speeds:

• 160km/h in a 120km/h zone;
• 150km/h in a 100km/h zone;
• 124km/h in an 80km/h zone;
• 104km/h in a 70km/h zone; and
• 94km/h in a 60km/h zone.

Arrests

A total of 69 arrests were made for the following offences:
• 45 x driving under the influence of alcohol;
• 2 x speeding;
• 4 x reckless and negligent driving;
• 5 x goods overloading;
• 10 x possession of fraudulent documentation;
• 1 x inducing any authorised officer or peace officer to act in conflict with his/her duty;
• 1 x failing to comply; and
• 1 x in possession of illegal substance.

Fatalities

A total of 12 crashes occurred in the reporting period, and 13 fatalities were recorded:
• 3 x drivers;
• 1 x Fell off vehicle;
• 1 x passenger; and
• 8 x pedestrians.

________________________________________

MEDIA QUERIES:
Rebecca Campbell
Spokesperson for Minister Ricardo Mackenzie
076 783 2583 or Rebecca.Campbell@westerncape.gov.za