Drunk drivers and speedsters have been warned to keep off the streets of the City of Joburg if they don’t want to spend the Easter long weekend behind bars.
The Joburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) will set up roadblocks everyday during the long weekend along busy roads and freeways.
JMPD spokesperson Chief Superintendent Wayne Minnaar said yesterday that officers will be out in force to ensure there is safety for law-abiding residents and motorists.
“We would like to wish everyone a safe Easter weekend. If you break the law, our officers will not hesitate to put you behind bars. Drivers with vehicles that have defects such as smooth tyres, defective wipers or no lights should expect a fine of between R250 and R1 500,” warned Chief Superintendent Minnaar.
Motorists who text and drive or who are on their cellphones while driving can expect a R500 fine. Anyone who does not buckle up will be fined.
“Drunk drivers should either stay away from Joburg streets or get alternative transport home. If they don’t, we’ll breathalyse them, take them to the police station and have their blood tested before locking them up,” said Chief Superintendent Minnaar.
Any driver going 40km/h above the speed limit will be locked up. If you overtake over a solid white line, expect a R1000 fine.
Joburg’s Emergency Management Services (EMS) will be on high alert throughout the long weekend, said spokesperson Nana Radebe.
“Our fire stations will be working 24/7 and we have arranged extra resources to ensure that we can speedily respond to any emergencies that may occur during this busy time,” said Radebe.
Last week, 171 drivers were arrested for drunk driving after JMPD officers stopped and checked about 1 979 vehicles across Johannesburg.
Joburg Police spokesperson Colonel Lungelo Dlamini also urged motorists to exercise caution on the roads.
“There will be crime-prevention operations by all law enforcement agencies that will include roadblocks in major routes, stop and search operations as well as raids on liquor outlets. At station level normal policing activities will continue,” said Colonel Dlamini.
