A Gauteng-based government service provider with state contracts worth billions of rands has been arrested in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) for drunk driving, reckless driving and attempting to flee from law enforcement, as authorities intensify festive-season road safety operations.
The arrest was confirmed on Sunday following the latest #NenzaniLaEzweni road safety blitz conducted by the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI).
Dangerous Chase Ends in Port Shepstone Arrest
KZN Transport MEC Siboniso Duma said the suspect was arrested in Port Shepstone after a dangerous pursuit involving multiple traffic violations.
According to Duma, the motorist drove recklessly into oncoming traffic, skipped four red robots, and fled from RTI officers before attempting to evade arrest by hiding inside a residential property.
“The arrest of a motorist who drove recklessly towards oncoming traffic, skipped four red robots, fled from RTI officers, and hid inside a house is a clear indication that we are determined to restore law and order,” Duma said.
RTI officers eventually intercepted and arrested the suspect after surrounding the residence.
Officer Praised for Bravery
Duma praised the RTI officers involved in the arrest, singling out a female traffic officer for her bravery during the pursuit.
“In particular, we salute the female RTI officer who pursued the reckless motorist together with her colleague,” he said. “The two were brave and fearless in defence of innocent road users.”
Part of Wider Festive Drunk Driving Crackdown
The arrest forms part of a broader festive-season crackdown on drunk driving across KZN, a period historically associated with increased road fatalities.
Between Saturday night and Sunday morning, RTI officers arrested 95 motorists for driving under the influence across three regions in the province.
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Stanger: 39 arrests, including two police officers and one motorist from Gauteng
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Newcastle: 36 arrests, including a senior municipal official, three educators, and a nurse
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Port Shepstone: 20 arrests, including the Gauteng-based service provider
“No One Is Above the Law”
Duma said the operation demonstrated growing cooperation between law enforcement agencies, including RTI and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
“A swift response from other RTI team members and SAPS was a display of an enduring partnership focusing on creating hope for a better future,” he said.
KZN authorities have warned that no status, wealth or political connections will protect offenders from arrest, as roadblocks and patrols continue throughout the festive season.
While the identity of the arrested service provider has not been disclosed, officials said further legal processes will follow.
