The arrest of 66 drunk drivers in Newcastle over the weekend has been condemned by the Newcastle Municipality, which described it as a ‘concerning, ongoing trend’.

“Since October 22, 274 offenders have been arrested, making it the highest number in the province,” said municipal communications spokesperson Mthandeni Myende.

This, according to him, underscores a persistent and deeply concerning pattern of alcohol abuse on our roads.

The arrests follow the KZN Department of Transport, with the RTI, launching a province-wide crackdown on drunk driving under the #NenzanilaEzweni No-Nonsense Operation.

Myende added that this ‘level of lawlessness was unacceptable, particularly as the festive season approaches, a period meant for rest, celebration, and family, not preventable injury, trauma, and loss of life’.

“The Municipality unequivocally condemns the reckless abuse of alcohol and the dangerous conduct of individuals who choose to drink and drive,” he said.

According to Myende, such behaviour places immense strain on law enforcement personnel, emergency responders, and healthcare facilities, while endangering innocent motorists and pedestrians.

As part of intensified festive safety measures, the Municipality, working with SAPS, Newcastle Traffic Services, and provincial authorities, has strengthened operations across the city.

These include expanded roadblocks, sobriety checkpoints, high-visibility patrols, and targeted compliance inspections focusing on illegal alcohol trading and non-compliant establishments.

Offenders will face firm legal consequences and are reminded to obey the law at all times.

Myende also urged motorists to observe the following:

• Refrain completely from drinking and driving.
• Obey all traffic laws and instructions issued by officers.
• Avoid public drinking and disorderly behaviour.
• Report reckless driving, unsafe conduct, and illegal alcohol activity.

The Municipality also appealed to families, community leaders, civil society partners, and faith-based organisations to help reinforce responsible behaviour during this period.

A safer Newcastle, Myende said, requires the collective effort of every sector of society.

“We acknowledge and commend the dedicated work of law-enforcement agencies whose continuous vigilance has resulted in the 340 arrests recorded to date. Their efforts are central to protecting our communities and preserving lives,” he said.

Myende concluded by reaffirming the Municipality’s commitment to safeguarding all residents.

“Let us work together to ensure that every Newcastle household enters the new year safely, responsibly, and without tragedy.”

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