Media Statement by Dan Plato, Minister of Community Safety

This weekend's 24 alcohol blitz roadblocks across the Western Cape saw a total of 3 523 vehicles stopped as part of the Western Cape Government's Safely Home campaign.

A total of 1 121 drivers were screened for being under suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol, resulting in 26 arrests. A pedestrian was also arrested in Vredendal for being drunk.

The highest breath alcohol reading was recorded in Swellendam at 1.11 mg/1 000 ml.

A staggering 540 speeding offences were recorded. The highest speeds were recorded on the N1 in the Worcester area at 170 km/h in a 120 km/h zone and on the N2 near Swellendam at 106 km/h in a 80 km/h zone.

A total of 289 fines were issued for various traffic violations.

Two people tragically lost their lives this weekend. On the N1 near Worcester, a driver was killed after he attempted to overtake a heavy motor vehicle but lost control of his car. A pedestrian was knocked down on the road near Hawston/Vermont.

This festive season, Western Cape road users will not escape our roadblocks or the officers out on patrol who are on high alert to rid our roads of reckless driving.

Whilst most drivers understand the importance of responsible driving, those who do speed, drive intoxicated, ignore road rules or operate unsafe vehicles will not get away with it. I also urge pedestrians to heed the call for safety and to not cross highways or walk on the roads drunk. If we all act in the interest of safety we can all enjoy the festive season and get safely home.