Johannesburg Police Crack Down: 211 Motorists Arrested for DUI in a Week
- 211 motorists were arrested for drunk driving in Johannesburg within a week, from 16 to 22 February 2026
- JMPD conducted targeted enforcement to curb traffic violations and enhance road safety across high-risk areas
- Chief Patrick Jaca reinforced the zero-tolerance policy on DUI, urging responsible behaviour among motorists
Justin Williams, a journalist at Briefly News since 2024, covers South Africa’s current affairs. Before joining Briefly News, he served as a writer and chief editor at Right for Education Africa’s South African chapter.
Source: Getty Images
GAUTENG, JOHANNESBURG - The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) arrested 211 motorists for driving under the influence (DUI) between Monday, 16 February 2026, and Sunday, 22 February 2026.
211 Arrested for DUI in Johannesburg
The arrests followed strategic roadblocks, roving patrols, and targeted enforcement operations across the City of Johannesburg. Officers focused on high-risk areas and major routes known for traffic violations as part of efforts to curb lawlessness and reduce road fatalities. JMPD maintained high-visibility patrols in all regions during the operation. JMPD leadership described the figures as a serious concern. The department said each of the 211 arrests reflected a motorist who chose personal convenience over the safety of other road users.
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Chief of Police Commissioner Patrick Jaca said driving under the influence is not a "mistake" but a deliberate act of negligence that endangers residents and visitors. He said the department's zero-tolerance approach remains in force, adding that every arrest prevents a potential tragedy. He confirmed that JMPD will continue deploying resources around the clock to keep roads safe. The department urged motorists to take personal responsibility, designate sober drivers, or use e-hailing services, taxis, or public transport when consuming alcohol. JMPD warned there will be no leniency for offenders and said anyone who drinks and drives will be arrested.
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Other crime-related stories
Briefly News also reported that members of the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) were applauded for arresting a taxi driver who was operating an overloaded vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. Arrive Alive CEO Advocate Johan Jonck condemned the driver’s actions. Live News SA posted a video of the JMPD officers arresting on Valentine’s Day. Members of the JMPD surround the vehicle. One of the officers whistles incredulously as a female officer holds up a bottle of beer.
A minibus taxi driver was taken into custody after being found allegedly driving under the influence near a primary school in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni. The driver, who was transporting commuters at the time, drew police attention when officers noticed the taxi being driven with its door open. After stopping the vehicle, traffic officials conducted a breathalyser test and determined that the driver’s alcohol level was well above the legal limit.
Two City of Cape Town law enforcement officers have been arrested after they allegedly demanded a R3,000 bribe from a drunk motorist. The arrest follows a sting operation by the South African Police Service's anti-corruption unit just over a week ago. It is reported that the two officers stopped a motorist for driving under the influence of alcohol on Voortrekker Road in Parow.
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Source: Briefly News
