A stolen Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI was recovered and two suspects arrested yesterday during a roadblock operation linked to the launch of Ummemezi Wezimoto, a new crime recognition software introduced by the KZN Department of Transport and Human Settlements in partnership with MTN.

The Witness reports eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba joined MEC Siboniso Duma at the launch of the technology, which is designed to detect stolen vehicles and identify other criminal activity in real time.

According to the provincial Department of Transport, the GTI was flagged by the software as a vehicle reported stolen in eMalahleni, Mpumalanga. A new case has been opened, and the suspect is in police custody.

The system also detected a fraudulent temporary vehicle permit, resulting in a separate arrest.

During the multidisciplinary roadblock held from 08:00 to 11:00, 270 vehicles were stopped and inspected.

Authorities charged 110 motorists for traffic violations, impounded 13 unroadworthy vehicles, and issued 18 written notices. Between 10:00 and 11:00, over 1 200 vehicles passed through the Mariannhill Toll Plaza.

In a separate metro police operation on King Dinuzulu Road and Julius Nyerere Street, 150 vehicles were stopped and 86 drivers charged for offences including failing to produce valid driver’s licences, defective stop lights, worn tyres, and failure to wear seatbelts.

Xaba welcomed the initiative, saying the partnership between government and the private sector was a major step forward in strengthening road safety and law enforcement.

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