KZN Transport MEC wants harsh sentences for motorists arrested for drinking and driving

JOHANNESBURG - More than 10 people were arrested during this Easter long weekend for driving under the influence of alcohol in the province.

KwaZulu-Natal has beefed up its road safety campaign in efforts to curb road fatalities, as many travel to various religious and holiday destinations.

This has been made possible through the anti-crime software which was rolled out for the Easter holidays.

KZN MEC for transport Siboniso Duma has called for a harsh sentence for those arrested for drinking and driving.

His spokesperson, Ndabezinhle Sibiya, said: "The motorists that have been arrested for drinking and driving are in prison, and the MEC is pushing for a six-year term in prison because he believes that will serve as a deterrent. He has also indicated that yesterday more than 180 cars were stopped during a multi-diplinary road block around the Qalakabusha Correctional Services."

Sibiya said that motorists were also nabbed for other traffic violations.

"Six cars were impounded after it was found that they had no permits, 83 violations of the traffic rules were registered, and one taxi driver was arrested for drinking and driving. He was intoxicated, and he endangered the lives of passengers. In total, we talk about more than 10 motorists who have been arrested for drinking and driving."