Law enforcement authorities in Gauteng arrested more than 1,200 suspects across the province for drunk driving.
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) said it arrested 185 motorists between 13 and 19 October 2025 during its crackdown across the city, spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla said in a statement on Monday.
Fihla commended the operation, saying it removed dangerous drivers from the city’s roads. He urged motorists to avoid drunk driving by making alternate travel arrangements.
ZERO TOLERANCE FOR DRUNK DRIVERS
JMPD acting commissioner Eldred Fortein, warned against the violation of the city’s by-laws and traffic regulations.
“The JMPD is committed to reclaiming our roads. Our message is unequivocal: If you operate a vehicle while impaired or negligently, our officers will find you. We will not relent in our efforts to ensure that traffic regulations and municipal by-laws are respected, and offenders will be held accountable to the full extent of the law,” he said.
Meanwhile, Gauteng police arrested 75 suspects for drunk driving during their crackdown on Saturday.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo said Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni led the operation.
It aims to intensify roadblocks, liquor outlet inspections, and crime prevention patrols at transport hubs and shopping centres throughout the festive season.
Police made the following arrests:
- 154 suspects in Ekurhuleni for liquor, drug, and immigration violations;
- 463 suspects in Tshwane for car hijacking and kidnapping;
- 179 suspects in Sedibeng and West Rand for drug dealing, stolen property, and illegal liquor operations; and
- 218 suspects in Johannesburg for assault, malicious damage to property, and possession of unlicensed firearms.
Masondo said the suspects were due to appear at various magistrate’s court soon.
He said others were released after paying admission of guilty fines.
