RTMC reports surge in roadside arrests; bribes and DUIs skyrocket

A record number of motorists have been arrested for attempting to bribe traffic officers and for drunken driving on South Africa’s roads, according to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC).

The surge in enforcement comes as the festive season holiday rush reaches its peak. Traffic volumes have intensified significantly, with more than 2,000 vehicles per hour recorded leaving Gauteng toward Limpopo.

UNPRECEDENTED ARREST STATISTICS
Data released by the RTMC highlights a sharp increase in criminal behaviour on the road:

Bribery: 48 motorists were arrested for attempting to bribe traffic officials, marking the highest number of such arrests ever recorded.

Drunken Driving: DUI arrests have seen a massive 125% increase compared to the previous year.

RTMC Spokesperson Simon Zwane confirmed the figures, noting that authorities are maintaining a zero-tolerance approach to lawlessness during the peak travel period.

“A total of 48 motorists, the highest number ever, have been arrested for attempting to bribe traffic officers while 4,106 have been arrested for drunken [driving],” said Zwane.

The RTMC continues to urge motorists to prioritise safety and strictly adhere to road rules as the holiday period continues.