The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport says its #NenzaniLaEzweni road safety campaign resulted in the arrest of a number of motorists in Ladysmith on Saturday (July 18) for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol.

Drivers offer unusual excuses

According to the department’s statement, some motorists denied being intoxicated, while others blamed friends for their actions.

One driver told Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) officers that he had simply wanted to return home.

“I was minding my own business and walking to my car. I only wanted to be home with my wife urgently, but things changed,” he told officers.

The same driver later claimed he had been forced to drive while drunk.

“Someone forced me to drive home. I tried to explain that I was too drunk to drive, but he became violent. I had no option but to drive home. I blame this guy for my arrest,” he said.

‘I don’t drink at all’

Another motorist insisted he had not consumed any alcohol.

According to the department, the driver claimed he was ‘as sober as an eight-year-old boy coming from school’. Officials said the denial left the RTI team amused and flabbergasted before the driver was also arrested with 45 other motorists.

Department urges responsible driving

The Department of Transport said the arrests form part of its ongoing #NenzaniLaEzweni campaign aimed at improving road safety and reducing alcohol-related crashes.

Motorists have been urged to avoid drinking and driving, reminding the public that impaired driving places both the driver and other road users at risk.

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