The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport’s Operation Nenzani La Ezweni continued to make an impact as 37 motorists arrested for drunk driving spent Thursday, 8 January, behind bars.
Led by MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, the operation has resulted in the arrest of more than 2,600 motorists across the province since its launch on 15 August 2025. The Road Traffic Inspectorate worked alongside eThekwini Metro Police and Durban North SAPS to conduct the latest roadblocks.
Among those arrested were three women. The total later rose to 38 after police apprehended a separate reckless driver in the area.
Ward 35 Councillor Bradley Singh emphasised that uMhlanga residents would not tolerate drunk driving. He said: “Our continued collaboration with law enforcement is yielding results, as evidenced by recent roadblocks. We call for these operations to increase.”
The Democratic Alliance councillor added that those who endanger the community through early-morning drag racing, a near-daily occurrence, must face consequences. “We are committed to intensifying our efforts until this dangerous activity is stopped. I want to commend the law enforcement RTI, Metro and SAPS for the support.”
Metro Police spokesperson Colonel Boysie Zungu confirmed no drugs, weapons, or other illegal items were discovered during the operation. “Consuming alcohol and driving a motor vehicle on a public road is always a risk to the driver and general members of the public,” he said. “The effects of liquor on each person is different. It impairs their senses, ability to judge when driving, etc.”
He added: “The consequences of being involved in a motor vehicle collision whilst under the influence of liquor is serious for all parties. When convicted of an offence of driving a vehicle whilst under the influence of intoxicating liquor results in a criminal record and has devastating impact on your status of your drivers license, and work.”
Colonel Zungu urged the community to be active citizens by reporting all illegal incidents to the police.
