The Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) arrested more than 58 motorists for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol during road safety operations conducted across Tshwane between Friday and the early hours of Sunday, 26 July.
The arrests were made during coordinated operations by regional and specialised policing units in Centurion, Mamelodi, Mabopane, Bronkhorstspruit, Sinoville and Pretoria North as part of the department’s ongoing campaign to improve road safety and reduce alcohol-related crashes.
According to the TMPD, the arrests highlight an ongoing concern over motorists who continue to drive while under the influence of alcohol despite repeated warnings about the dangers associated with impaired driving.
The department also expressed concern that many of those arrested were young and educated individuals who knowingly chose to get behind the wheel while intoxicated, placing themselves, passengers, pedestrians and other motorists at risk.
TMPD Chief of Police Commissioner Yolanda Faro condemned the irresponsible behaviour of motorists arrested during the operations and encouraged road users to make responsible choices before consuming alcohol. She urged motorists to arrange for a designated driver, use public transport or make use of taxi and ride-hailing services instead of risking lives by driving while intoxicated.
Residents who spoke to Pheli Times said tougher enforcement is needed to discourage drunk driving.
Lerato Mahlangu from Mamelodi said the number of arrests was worrying.
“More than 58 arrests in one weekend shows that many people are still ignoring the law. Drunk drivers don’t only endanger themselves—they put innocent families at risk. I believe the penalties should be much tougher,” she said.
Bongani Khumalo from Mabopane believes consistent law enforcement is key to changing motorists’ behaviour.
“Roadblocks shouldn’t only happen occasionally. If drivers know there are regular operations throughout the year, they’ll think twice before drinking and driving,” he said.
Ayanda Maseko, a university student from Pretoria North, encouraged young people to make responsible decisions before going out.
“Today there are many safer options like taxis and ride-hailing services. Planning your trip home before drinking can save lives. It’s never worth risking your future over one poor decision,” she said.
The TMPD reiterated that motorists found driving under the influence of alcohol will face strict legal consequences as part of its continued efforts to enforce the law and improve road safety throughout Tshwane.
Pheli Times contacted the TMPD spokesperson for additional information, including a regional breakdown of the arrests, the number of roadblocks conducted, other traffic offences detected during the operation and whether drunk driving arrests have increased compared with the same period last year. However, no response had been received by the time of publication.
The department said it remains committed to protecting road users and will continue conducting high-visibility road safety operations to discourage reckless and unlawful driving behaviour across the City of Tshwane.
