The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has issued a stern warning to traffic officers ahead of the busy Easter travel period, making it clear that those found engaging in bribery or misconduct will face immediate dismissal.

Authorities are preparing for a surge in vehicles on major routes across the country during this time.

CEO of RTMC, Advocate Makhosini Msibi, addressed the national traffic police in Pretoria on March 31 before their deployment, urging officers to play a meaningful role in reducing road fatalities.

He cautioned that decisive action would be taken against any officials involved in bribery, corruption, misuse of firearms, or reporting for duty under the influence of alcohol, stressing that such behaviour would not be tolerated within the ranks.

Msibi reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting officers who carry out their duties with integrity but warned that those who fail to uphold the law would be removed.

“We cannot allow people [of bad character] to be among us. You cannot be friends with criminals,” he said.

Traffic volumes are expected to increase significantly from Thursday, particularly on major routes connecting key economic hubs.

Among the roads expected to experience a surge are the N1 from Gauteng to Polokwane, the N3 from Gauteng to KwaZulu-Natal, the N14 linking Gauteng and Mpumalanga, and the N2 routes connecting KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape and the Western Cape.

He stated that highly visible law enforcement operations will be rolled out across these routes, including alternative arterial roads, as authorities intensify efforts to ensure safer travel.

Motorists have been urged to obey the rules of the road, avoid alcohol consumption, and refrain from speeding and reckless driving.

Drivers are also advised to reduce their speed when travelling through residential areas to minimise the risk of collisions with pedestrians. At the same time, pedestrians have been warned to stay off highways.

Law enforcement officers have been instructed to remove individuals found hitchhiking along these routes, and heavy fines will be issued to public transport operators who violate permit conditions.

Msibi emphasised that road safety is a shared responsibility that requires co-operation from all road users.

He noted that individual behaviour plays a critical role in preventing accidents and saving lives during high-traffic periods.

As the country prepares for increased movement over Easter, concerns around vehicle-related crime have also been raised.

Fidelity Services Group has urged motorists to take proactive steps to safeguard their vehicles during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

The group noted that vehicle hijackings continue to occur daily in South Africa, with patterns typically following a cyclical trend.

Carjackings see lower activity earlier in the year before rising from March into April.

This increase coincides with heightened travel and economic activity, making the Easter period particularly vulnerable.

Group CEO Wahl Bartmann stated that while holiday travel should be a time for rest and family, it is essential for motorists to remain vigilant and prepared.

“We understand that holiday travel should be about spending time with family and taking a break. By planning ahead and using the right technology, motorists can reduce risks and travel with greater peace of mind,” he said.

Bartmann explained that vehicle crime is often driven by organised syndicates, with stolen vehicles typically destined for resale, stripping for parts or cross-border movement.

He noted that such vehicle theft is concentrated in major urban areas and is frequently linked to predictable routines and peak travel periods.

“Access to real-time information is becoming increasingly important as vehicle crime grows more sophisticated. A proactive approach to vehicle security, supported by real-time tracking and alert systems, can significantly improve response times and recovery outcomes, reinforcing the importance of early detection and connected vehicle security,” he added.

Bartmann further encouraged motorists to remain aware of their surroundings, particularly in parking areas and busy locations.

Drivers are advised to avoid leaving valuables visible inside vehicles, be cautious with keyless entry devices, and report any suspicious activity immediately.

“Security is most effective when it is both practical and proactive. Combining everyday awareness with the right support and technology allows motorists to feel more confident on the road.”

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