Over 180 motorists arrested for drunk driving in Johannesburg in one week
Mapaballo Borotho
- Over the past week, Johannesburg police arrested 186 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol during intensified roadblocks and patrols.
- All offenders are set to face legal consequences as authorities continue to enforce road safety measures.
- Meanwhile, South Africa’s Vala Umgodi operations in July 2025 led to 999 arrests linked to illegal mining and other serious crimes across the country.
Over one hundred motorists were arrested across Johannesburg last week for driving under the influence of alcohol.
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) confirmed that between Monday, 11 August 2025, and Sunday, 17 August 2025, a total of 186 motorists were apprehended by officers for driving while intoxicated.
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said the arrests followed intensified and coordinated efforts, including roadblocks and routine patrols.
“All arrested individuals have been processed and will face the full consequences of the law. The JMPD remains committed to ensuring the safety of all road users and will continue to strengthen enforcement efforts to combat this irresponsible and life-threatening behaviour,” Fihla added.
The arrests come amid ongoing warnings to motorists about the dangers of driving under the influence, which can lead to devastating accidents and loss of lives.
In a related crackdown, South Africa’s Vala Umgodi operations, aimed at combating illegal mining and associated criminal activities, led to the arrest of 999 suspects of various nationalities across the country in July 2025.
Those arrested faced charges including illegal mining-related offences, murder, attempted murder, theft of minerals, unlawful possession of explosives or firearms, possession of gold, contraventions of the Immigration Act, and possession of suspected stolen property.
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