The Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) in KwaZulu-Natal has continued its no-nonsense approach to tackling drunk driving over the Easter weekend, with several arrests made in the province. According to the KZN Department of Transport, a public prosecutor, a retired SAPS member, a firefighter, and an electrical engineer were among those arrested for drunk driving in Pietermaritzburg alone.
MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, has emphasized the importance of keeping roads safe, stating that “arrest all of them. We don’t need motorists driving under the influence of alcohol,”. The RTI has been using humour to tackle the issue, with their Facebook page posting updates on arrests, including a motorist who was stopped and asked the “famous question” NenzaniLaEzweni? (What are you doing in the country?) in Afrikaans.
Arrests Made Over Easter Weekend
The department has listed several arrests made over the Easter period, including a man who was stopped in Margate and offered to give the officer a sheep in exchange for his freedom. Another motorist was arrested for driving from Pinetown to Pietermaritzburg with his 12-year-old daughter while under the influence of alcohol.
- A motorist was arrested for driving under the influence and faced additional charges of resisting arrest and carrying a firearm.
- A Zimbabwean national was arrested for drunk driving and failed to produce his documents and a driver’s licence.
As the South African government continues to emphasize the importance of road safety, the RTI’s efforts are a step in the right direction. The use of humour in their posts has also helped to engage the public and raise awareness about the issue.
RTI’s Humorous Approach
The RTI’s Facebook page has been using humour to tackle the issue of drunk driving, with posts that are both entertaining and informative. One post in particular has stolen the show, with the department joking about staging a “Robert Mugabe Marathon” in Zimbabwe for a motorist who attempted to run away from the law.
