BARRAGE – Motorists travelling on the N1 had to hit the brakes as a massive roadblock brought law enforcers out in full force.

Both the northbound and southbound lanes were targeted on October 28 as police and traffic officers from Gauteng and the Free State joined forces for an interprovincial operation.

Thousands of motorists faced stop-and-search checks as officers wrapped up Transport Month and stepped up road safety efforts ahead of the busy festive season.

The operation saw a strong law enforcement presence along the busy highway, with cars, trucks and motorists subjected to inspections.

According to Barrage SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Sophia Gaboutlwelwe, several police stations and external role players took part in the operation.

These included Barrage, Zamdela, Vereeniging, Sasolburg and Parys SAPS, Gauteng Traffic, Free State Traffic, Gauteng Traffic Wardens and Siyabangena Patrollers.

Gaboutlwelwe said the operation aimed to promote road safety during a period when traffic volumes were expected to increase as the festive season approached.

Officers inspected vehicles to identify those that were not roadworthy and checked for stolen vehicles, illegal firearms, human trafficking and other criminal activities.

Trucks were also searched as law enforcers worked to ensure that motorists and vehicles travelling along the busy route complied with the law.

“Inspections were conducted on unroadworthy vehicles, and checks were done for stolen vehicles, illegal firearms, human trafficking and other criminal activities,” said Gaboutlwelwe.

While the operation was about catching lawbreakers, officers also handed out pamphlets to educate motorists and members of the public about road safety and the dangers of criminal activities.

By the end of the operation, about 16 traffic fines had been issued.

Gaboutlwelwe said vehicles and trucks were searched, motorists were checked, vehicles were tested and firearms were inspected.
“Vehicles were searched, trucks were searched, people were searched, vehicles were tested, firearms were checked, and pamphlets were issued,” she said.

With festive-season traffic expected to put more pressure on the roads, motorists are urged to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, obey traffic laws and remain alert behind the wheel.