A church trip to St Lucia ended unexpectedly when a pastor was arrested after allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol during a weekend road safety operation in northern KwaZulu-Natal.
The incident unfolded along the R618, where Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) officers had set up a routine law enforcement checkpoint aimed at detecting traffic violations and impaired drivers.
According to KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma, the pastor was travelling to conduct a cleansing and baptism ceremony in St Lucia. Members of his congregation were reportedly following behind his vehicle when traffic officers stopped him for inspection.
Officials became suspicious after noticing what they believed to be a strong smell of alcohol. A breathalyser test was then conducted, with authorities claiming it produced a reading of 0.360% Blood Alcohol Content.
Duma said the interaction took an unexpected turn when officers informed the pastor of the result. Instead of disputing the allegation, the pastor reportedly quoted the Bible, reciting 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Following the roadside test, the pastor was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. His identity has not been disclosed, and no formal conviction has been recorded. The matter will now proceed through the legal process, where the allegations will be tested in court.
The arrest forms part of a broader campaign by KwaZulu-Natal authorities to curb drunk driving during the busy weekend period. Provincial officials say dozens of motorists have already been arrested in recent operations, with additional enforcement expected to continue across the province.
Transport authorities have urged motorists to avoid consuming alcohol before getting behind the wheel, warning that impaired driving continues to pose a serious threat to road users and remains a major focus of ongoing traffic enforcement efforts.