Media release by Ricardo Mackenzie, Western Cape Minister of Mobility
I am appalled at the reckless behaviour of drivers who refuse to abide by the laws designed for the safety of all road users. Speeding is just one example of this behaviour which too often causes tragic crashes and fatalities on our roads.
Last week alone, Western Cape Provincial Traffic Services arrested four people for speeding and recorded 316 speeding offences across the province. These include a vehicle travelling at 173km/h in a 120km/h zone. This is completely unacceptable.
While the 24/7, 365-days-a-year presence of Provincial Traffic Services on our roads has a significant impact on safety, all road users need to step up and take responsibility for reducing our alarmingly high number of traffic fatalities.
Our Provincial Traffic Inspectors consistently deliver results that make our province safer, both on the roads and in general. These results are enabled by innovative technology, collaborative enforcement, hard work, and a commitment to the people of the Western Cape.
On Friday 1 September, Provincial Traffic Inspectors searched a light delivery vehicle at a K78 roadblock on the N1 and found 15kg of dagga worth R150 000. The driver was arrested at the scene. This is yet another example of our excellent standard of traffic law enforcement in partnership with other role players, such as the South African Police Service, municipal enforcement agencies and our neighbouring provinces.
Results from WC Provincial Traffic Services – 28 August to 3 September 2023
Provincial Traffic Inspectors conducted 299 integrated roadblocks, vehicle check points and speed control operations; and stopped and checked 39 032 vehicles across the Western Cape. A total of 9 967 fines were issued for various traffic violations ranging from driver to vehicle fitness. Eighteen vehicles were impounded and 200 were discontinued for being unroadworthy.
A total of 316 speeding offences were recorded, with the following highest speeds:
- 173km/h in a 120km/h zone;
- 134km/h in a 100km/h zone;
- 119km/h in an 80km/h zone;
- 104km/h in a 60km/h zone; and
- 79km/h in a 40km/h zone.
Arrests
- A total of 106 arrests were made for the following offences:
- 73 x driving under the influence of alcohol;
- 4 x speeding;
- 11 x reckless and negligent driving;
- 3 x goods overloading;
- 10 x possession of fraudulent documentation;
- 1 x bribery;
- 1 x resisting arrest;
- 1 x failing to furnish information;
- 1 x driver failing to stop when involved in an accident (damage to property/animal); and
- 1 x possession of drugs (dagga).
Fatalities
A total of 21 crashes occurred in the reporting period, and 21 fatalities were recorded:
- 3 x drivers;
- 1 x other;
- 3 x passengers; and
- 14 x pedestrians.
Media queries:
Rebecca Campbell
Spokesperson for Minister Ricardo Mackenzie
076 783 2583 or Rebecca.Campbell@westerncape.gov.za