The Gauteng Traffic Police (GTP) expressed concern over the reckless and negligent driving they observed at the onset of the Easter weekend.

“The GTP is concerned about irresponsible driving behaviour during the Easter weekend,” spokesperson Sello Maremane said.

This was after a 33-year-old female GTP officer was knocked down by a 35-year-old female drunk driver during a law enforcement operation on Friday evening.

The incident took place along the N14 Pretoria/Krugersdorp freeway, near the R55.

“Upon inspection by the officers who were on duty with the affected officer, the suspect was found to be driving under the influence of alcohol. “The breathalyser reading recorded 1.29 milligrams per 1 000 milliliters,” he said.
This was five times over the legal limit of 0.24 milligrams.

“The driver was immediately arrested and detained at the Olievenhoutbosch police station to face charges relating to driving under the influence of alcohol as well as an alternative charge of reckless and negligent driving,” he said.

Maremane also said their observation was that a lot of these incidents occurred as a result of non-compliance with the rules of the road.

“As we approach the last days of the Easter weekend, I would like to encourage motorists to obey the rules of the road and keep the Gauteng region safe. I appeal to drivers to take charge of their safety and that of officers on the ground,” he said.

He added that the incident was “regrettable” and also undermined their road safety efforts while also jeopardising the lives of officers.

“Driving under the influence of alcohol constitutes a criminal offence which may lead to seven years imprisonment, without the option of a fine. “The GTP will monitor the case closely to ensure that the suspect is subjected to a criminal justice system and faces the full might of the law,” Maremane said.

He added that they would not be derailed in their efforts which were aimed at ensuring safety on Gauteng roads during the last days of the Easter period, and beyond.

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