A large-scale, multi-disciplinary operation targeting drunk driving, non-compliance, and other criminal activities brought a heightened police presence to Umhlanga on Friday night.
A massive roadblock was set up at the entrance to the Umhlanga Central Business District (CBD), with KZNVIP among the key role-players involved. Heightened visibility was maintained throughout the precinct.
Spokesperson for KZNVIP, Gareth Naidoo, said the operation was led by the Department of Transport in partnership with Durban North SAPS, the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), Metro Police, and private security stakeholders, including KZN VIP, Marshall Security, and Blue Security.
“The joint initiative resulted in multiple arrests. Authorities confirmed the focus was on curbing incidents of driving under the influence of alcohol and addressing broader compliance-related issues in Umhlanga. Twenty-four arrests were effected in Umhlanga,” said Naidoo.
“Law enforcement agencies have described the operation as a highly successful show of force, noting that similar initiatives can be expected in the future. KZNVIP welcomes these joint operations and remains committed to working alongside law enforcement and community stakeholders to create safer spaces for all residents, businesses, and visitors,” he added.
Spokesperson for the MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Ndabezinhle Sibiya, provided a provincial context: “Shockingly, this weekend alone, we managed to arrest 93 motorists in KZN before they could kill other road users. We pause to heap praise on our highly dedicated, energetic, and efficient team from the Road Traffic Inspectorate.
“We value the enduring partnership with Lt General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who deployed the South African Police Service. Traffic officers from eThekwini Metro, Umsunduzi, Kokstad, and Ladysmith augmented our operations.
“We remain encouraged by contributions from private security companies such as KZN VIP Protection, Blue Security, Marshal Security, and many others; too many to mention.
“Our Zero Tolerance, No Nonsense, and Alufakwa Campaign will continue to target suburbs, city centres, townships, and many other areas. We do want to make sure that criminal groups and individuals do not use our road networks to cause public disturbance or to commit crimes anywhere in the province,” Sibiya said.
The operation has been hailed as a significant step towards improving safety and compliance in the popular coastal precinct.
