The arrest of well over 600 traffic offenders in the province over the past long weekend is testimony to the no tolerance towards traffic lawbreakers and criminals that Police and traffic officials will be maintaining over the Easter period.
Officials from the Department of Transport, Safety, Security and Liaison arrested 95 drivers in Limpopo for driving under the influence of alcohol during the long weekend. Departmental Spokesperson Kagiso Mootane said several other motorists were arrested for other traffic violations. In the Capricorn District 81 drivers were arrested and 46 fined for overloading. In Mopani nine drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol whilst six were apprehended for fraudulent documents and three vehicles discontinued.
Police also made good on their promise by arresting 474 persons for various crimes during special operations across the province over the weekend.
Provincial Police Spokesperson Ronel Otto informed that the operation concentrated on road safety and liquor abuse which resulted in the arrest of 137 motorists for drunken driving. “More than 200 fines were issued for non-compliance of the Liquor Act while 58 were arrested for assault,” Otto said.
She added that with the influx of vehicles into the province this weekend Provincial Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola has warned that there will be a large Police presence not only on the roads but also in the city and towns. “We will work closely with other role players such as municipal and provincial traffic structures to ensure that safety on the roads is maintained,” he said.
Masemola warned hitchhikers saying: “Experience has taught us that criminal elements use this period to exploit desperate travellers. Criminal activities can also turn against drivers who are robbed by hitchhikers or even hijacked.”
He also warned not to leave valuable items in vehicles and to always be alert and aware of your environment to ensure your own safety.
Story: RC Myburgh
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