Media release by Ricardo Mackenzie, Western Cape Minister of Mobility
On Sunday 18 June, a Western Cape traffic officer was shot in the leg in Grabouw while responding to a call for backup from colleagues who had pulled over a public transport vehicle. The officer was discharged from hospital after receiving treatment. I wish him a speedy recovery and trust that the investigation by the South African Police Services (SAPS) will lead to serious consequences for the perpetrators.
Our traffic officers work incredibly hard to improve safety for commuters and all road users. I would like to take this opportunity to thank these men and women for their commitment and commend them for the remarkable results achieved. Their 24/7, 365 days a year presence is certainly felt on our roads.
In the week of 12 to 18 June 2023, Provincial Traffic Inspectors conducted a total of 282 integrated roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints and speed control operations; and stopped and checked 26 999 vehicles across the Western Cape.
A total of 7 514 fines were issued for various traffic violations ranging from driver to vehicle fitness. Nine vehicles were impounded and 59 were discontinued for being unroadworthy.
A total of 262 speeding offences were recorded, with the following highest speeds:
- 163km/h in a 120km/h zone
- 134km/h in a 100km/h zone
- 129km/h in a 90km/h zone
- 109km/h in an 80km/h zone
- 104km/h in a 60km/h zone
Arrests
A total of 72 arrests were made for the following offences:
- 61 x driving under the influence of alcohol
- 1 x speeding
- 3 x reckless and negligent driving
- 1 x goods overloading
- 4 x possession of fraudulent documentation
- 1 x inducing any authorised officer or peace officer to act in conflict with his/her duty
- 1 x failing to display the operating licence/permit number/type of service and/or any particulars prescribed by the Provincial Regulatory Entity on a public transport vehicle
Fatalities
A total of 15 crashes occurred in the reporting period, and 15 fatalities were recorded:
- 6 x drivers
- 1 x passengers
- 8 x pedestrians
Media queries:
Rebecca Campbell
Spokesperson for Minister Ricardo Mackenzie
076 783 2583 or Rebecca.Campbell@westerncape.gov.za