“You must behave yourselves nicely and not commit a sin, as God will punish you harshly.”

These were the words spoken by a local priest who found himself in trouble with Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) during a weekend roadblock in Newcastle, reports Northern Natal News.

According to officials, the priest attempted to persuade officers to ignore his alleged drunk driving offence, telling them they would ‘go to Heaven one day’ if they chose not to arrest him.

He then proceeded to read a passage from the Bible. RTI members reportedly listened politely before placing him under arrest.

The priest was among 35 motorists arrested for drunk driving during the #NenzaniLaEzweni operation conducted in Newcastle.

MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma has revealed that those arrested included a wide range of professionals and community members.

Those arrested were as follows:

• A priest
• A police officer
• More than two women
• A teacher
• A paramedic
• Two taxi drivers
• A bus driver
• A technician
• A public relations officer
• A commercial underwriter
• An engineer
• A security guard
• A community representative

The authorities have reiterated that no one is above the law and have urged motorists to avoid drinking and driving.

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