The Brackendowns CPF, emergency services and community members came together on May 2 for an anti-drunk driving awareness drive and memorial in honour of Enrique Robbertze da Silva.

The initiative, supported by the SAPS, ER24 and the EMPD, aimed to highlight the devastating consequences of drinking and driving while remembering a life lost too soon.

Enrique died on May 3, 2025, following a crash at the intersection near Kota Joe Roadhouse.

His death, believed to be linked to the driver of the vehicle being under the influence, has since become a rallying point for the community to demand accountability and safer roads.

The convoy began at Brackendowns SAPS, with emergency vehicles departing at 19:00 with lights and sirens, drawing attention from residents along the route.

@albertonrecordA road safety campaign in Alberton used a simulated accident and memorial for Enrique da Silva to warn about the deadly impact of drinking and driving. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za♬ original sound – Alberton Record

The procession moved toward Swartkoppies Road, where a simulated accident scene was set up.

One lane was closed while traffic was directed past the scene, as first responders stood in silence, creating a powerful visual of the realities they face daily.

A wide range of security companies and community safety partners showed their support, including CPS Security, Fox Security, Protective Force Security, Sentinel Security and SOG Security, among others.

Enrique’s best friend, Brendon Fourie, was also actively involved in organising the event, working closely with the Brackendowns CPF to help bring the memorial and awareness drive together.

At the site where Enrique’s memorial cross stands, a tribute was held.

Representatives from law enforcement, emergency services and community organisations addressed the crowd.
Faheem Essop from ER24 emphasised the broader impact of reckless decisions.

“Drinking and driving not only puts the driver at risk but also passengers, pedestrians and innocent road users. One choice can be the difference between life and death. Today is about responsibility,” he said.

Warrant officer Nkosi of Brackendowns SAPS warned that drunk driving remains a serious criminal offence with devastating consequences for families.

ALSO READ: Family seeks justice after Alberton crash claims life of Enrique Robbetze Da Silva

Shawn Bartlett from the Christian Motorcycle Association spoke about the emotional toll on first responders.

“The trauma they deal with daily is extreme. They carry the weight of what they see and for survivors, life can change in an instant through injury or disability,” he said.

For Enrique’s family, the evening was deeply emotional.

“He was my miracle baby, I waited seven years for him,” said his mother, Mandy da Silva.

His partner, Chandre, shared the painful reality of raising their child without him.

“There is no easy way to explain to my son why his father is no more. He didn’t just lose a father, he lost a lifetime of moments,” she said.

ER24 paramedics rang a ceremonial bell in Enrique’s honour. Traditionally rung once when responding to an incident, the bell was sounded multiple times as a tribute to his life.

Family and friends then released yellow balloons into the evening sky.

@albertonrecordMandy da Silva shares her speech At the site where Enrique’s memorial cross stands, a tribute was held. Representatives from law enforcement, emergency services and community organisations addressed the crowd. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za♬ original sound – Alberton Record

Refreshments, including wors rolls and water, were provided to attendees, generously sponsored by Pick n Pay and SPAR.

Organisers said the awareness drive was not only about remembering Enrique but also about urging the public to make responsible choices.

ALSO READ: Family waits for answers as autopsy report delay stalls Alberton crash case

“Let’s work together to make our roads safer,” Essop said.

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