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Gauteng police arrest 17 suspects for drunken driving


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Gauteng Traffic Police have arrested 17 suspects for driving under the influence of alcohol in various parts of the province.

Five other suspects were arrested on the N1 freeway for driving at 170 kilometres per hour in a 120 kilometre zone.

Spokesperson Sello Maremane says all the suspects will appear in various courts soon.

“Driving under the influence of alcohol and overspeeding remains the leading cause of road crashes in our province. Anyone found in contravention of road traffic laws will be charged. Enforcement operations are continuing to curb this illegal and irresponsible behaviour.”

Meanwhile, the Johannesburg Metro Police Department says it will continue its targeted operations across the city during the festive period.

The roadblocks will involve stopping and searching vehicles and occupants to check for illicit substances and dangerous weapons.

Officers will also check for driver and vehicle fitness.

Joburg Metro Police spokesperson Xolani Fihla says during yesterday’s roadblock along Chris Hani Road in Soweto, they managed to issue a number of traffic fines for various offences including driving without a valid licence. 

“Road safety is of utmost importance. Adhere to all the rules of the road. Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol. Avoid reckless and negligent driving and excessive speeding as well. Distractive driving is also a problem where people text or talk on their cellphones whilst driving – avoid that. The weather conditions within the festive season do change abruptly. So if it does rain do reduce your vehicle speed, maintain a safe following distance and switch your vehicle lights on. And if you encounter excessive flooding avoid that route and use alternative routes.”

-Additional reporting by Tshepo Phagane