North West- More than 31 drivers were arrested for drunken driving and 8 vehicles impounded for various reasons. Amongst the impounded vehicles were two of government vehicles in the early hours of Thursday.

The arrests followed a five day special operation conducted by the Jaws intervention unit with focus on drunken driving in Mahikeng as part of Mahikeng Revitalization programme.

More than 359 motorists were stopped and checked, while 1180 vehicles were scanned with the Number Plate Recognition System (NPRS) and 44 notices issued to motorists for different defaults during the operation.

“I am concerned about the high rate of drunken driving cases and urge motorists to avoid being on the wrong side of the law. This is completely out of order; we lose lives of our beloved ones due to accidents that are mainly caused by drunken drivers. We need to take action and become responsible road users to save lives of our people.”
“Road safety starts with an individual and with this behavior of people getting on the road while drunk will never be tolerated said North West, MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Gaoage Oageng Molapisi.

MEC said disciplinary proceedings will also be instituted against drivers responsible for the government vehicles impounded. He further urged government employees authorized to drive state vehicles to be more responsible and vigilant at all times.

“As we celebrate the Former President, who valued life, we need to follow his footsteps and continue to save the lives of our people in general and inculcate the element of responsibility to all especially in Mahikeng town which is part of our contribution to the safety cleanup campaign and revitalization programme. We shall continue with these operations beyond Mandela Day. By so doing, we believe that his soul will forever rest in peace,” concluded Molapisi.
-TDN
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