A total of 67 motorists were arrested for drunk driving in Umhlanga and Durban North over the weekend, according to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport.

The arrests took place during #NenzaniLaEzweni operations on Friday and Saturday, 29 March 2026, as part of the Easter road safety campaign.

Authorities say the operations revealed both high levels of intoxication and unusual behaviour among drivers.

What happened

Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) officers arrested 67 motorists across Umhlanga and Durban North during targeted enforcement operations.

Breakdown of arrests:

• Friday: 27 motorists arrested
• Saturday: 40 motorists arrested (Durban North focus)

According to Transport MEC Siboniso Duma, officers encountered several unusual incidents during the operations, including:

• A driver who claimed he was “waiting for the robot to turn green” at a stop sign intersection with no traffic lights
• A motorist who allegedly urinated on himself when stopped and later offered a bribe of between R500 and R1200
• A woman who denied drinking alcohol, saying she only had tea and came from the gym
• A driver who requested to be detained in a holding cell with a sea view

Officials said one case involved alcohol-induced visual hallucinations, where drivers reported seeing things that were not present.

Key details from the operation

• The arrests were part of the #NenzaniLaEzweni Easter road safety campaign launched on 24 March 2026
• Operations were conducted in high-traffic areas: Umhlanga and Durban North
• RTI officers used roadblocks and targeted enforcement
• Public response to the campaign has been described as “positive” by the department

Authorities also reported a decline in road fatalities and accidents since the campaign began, although no specific figures were provided.

Why it matters

Drunk driving remains one of the leading causes of road accidents and fatalities in South Africa.

This crackdown highlights:

• Ongoing risks on major urban roads
• The role of enforcement in reducing accidents
• The dangers of severe intoxication, including impaired judgement and hallucinations

For road users, the message is clear: enforcement is increasing, especially during high-risk periods like Easter holidays.

What you need to know

• Drunk driving is a criminal offence in South Africa
• Roadblocks and weekend operations are being intensified
• Bribery attempts are also criminal and can lead to additional charges
• Enforcement will likely continue throughout the Easter period

What to do next

• Do not drink and drive
• Use a designated driver or e-hailing service if you plan to drink
• Expect roadblocks, especially on weekends and holidays
• Report reckless or drunk driving to local authorities

Where to get help

• Contact local traffic authorities for reporting dangerous driving
• Use emergency services if you encounter an accident
• Follow official transport department updates for road safety alerts