KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, says the province’s intensified #NenzaniLaEzweni road safety operation is already protecting innocent lives after a truck driver was arrested with an extreme alcohol level allegedly 18 times over the legal limit.
According to Duma, a no-nonsense and highly energised RTI officer from Van Reenen intercepted the truck along the N3 near Tugela Plaza during a weekend safety blitz targeting reckless behaviour on major freight corridors.
Officers reportedly noticed suspicious driving before stopping the rig for inspection.
Once tested, authorities say they were stunned to find the driver’s alcohol reading at a level far beyond what the law permits for any motorist, let alone someone commanding a multi-tonne heavy vehicle capable of causing mass fatalities in seconds.
“He was arrested on the spot before he killed innocent road users,” Duma confirmed.
The MEC says the intervention highlights the immediate impact of the #NenzaniLaEzweni Operation, which is clamping down hard on drunk driving, unroadworthy trucks, overloaded vehicles, and illegal operators, especially along high-risk routes such as the N3.
Duma further warned that more arrests are on the way as law enforcement tightens its grip heading into the busy festive season, historically the deadliest period on South Africa’s roads.
“We are acting decisively. We will not allow reckless behaviour to turn our roads into graveyards. This operation is saving lives,” Duma said.
A full media statement will be issued soon, providing more details and further results from the operation.
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