A BMW M4 driver who allegedly fled from traffic police after being clocked at 204km/h was eventually arrested — after making a costly mistake by leaving his identification document behind at the scene.
In a statement released on Monday, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport detailed how the motorist was tracked down using advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technology deployed by the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI).
High-Speed Stop Turns Into Police Chase
According to the department, the motorist was initially stopped by the RTI team after being detected travelling at a dangerously high speed.
Instead of complying, the driver allegedly sped off — but not before accidentally leaving his ID document with officers.
This oversight proved critical.
AI Technology Leads Police to Golf Estate
MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma said RTI investigators used cutting-edge AI systems, including high-resolution imaging and real-time data analytics, to trace the suspect’s movements.
“The artificial intelligence and cutting-edge technology enabled the RTI to trace his movements to a golf estate on the South Coast,” Duma said.
Analysis of surveillance footage revealed the suspect removing registration number plates from the BMW M4 in an apparent attempt to evade detection.
Further investigation showed another individual later removing the vehicle from the estate.
Using AI-driven behavioural tracking, the RTI team was eventually able to locate the suspect hiding inside a villa within the golf estate, leading to his arrest.
Court Appearance and Bail
Duma commended the RTI team from Park Rynie for what he described as a meticulous and technology-driven investigation.
Following his arrest, the motorist — who is reportedly from a Durban suburb — appeared in the Scottburgh Magistrates’ Court, facing charges of:
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Speeding
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Reckless and negligent driving
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Evading traffic police
The suspect was granted R3,000 bail and is expected to return to court with his attorney on 25 February 2026.
