Johannesburg – At least 174 drivers have been arrested by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) for driving under the influence of alcohol during the festive season.
The tipplers were nabbed between 22 December 2025 and 28 December 2025 by JMPD officers who conducted a series of high-visibility roadblocks, roving patrols, and targeted operations across the city.
“As the 2025 festive season enters its most critical period, our officers have intensified law enforcement operations to curb the reckless scourge of driving under the influence of alcohol,” the JMPD said on Monday, 29 December 2025.
“As a result of these strategic deployments, we can confirm that 174 motorists were arrested by JMPD officers for driving under the influence of alcohol.”
JMPD Chief of Police, Commissioner Patrick Jaca, has issued a stern warning to those who continue to disregard the law.
“Every single arrest we make is more than just a statistic; it is a potential tragedy averted and a life saved from the hands of a reckless driver,” stated Commissioner Jaca.
“Under our zero-tolerance mandate, the JMPD will continue to maintain a 24-hour presence on all major routes and identified hotspots.
“We urge all motorists to take personal responsibility for their safety and the safety of others.”
Commissioner Patrick Jaca added: “We continue to advise motorists to designate a sober driver before heading out.
“Utilise e-hailing services or public transport if consuming alcohol. Obey all rules of the road to ensure everyone reaches their destination safely.
“Our message remains clear: If you choose to drink and drive, you will be arrested.”
In KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), a minibus taxi driver suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol abandoned his vehicle and ran away on foot in an attempt to avoid traffic authorities at a roadblock.
KZN Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma said the taxi driver in Newcastle who ran away was eventually arrested by “the highly trained and energised RTI [Road Traffic Inspectorate]”.
MEC Duma added: “Nobody is capable of evading RTI as they execute #NenzaniLaEzweni Operation”.
