Authorities have reported alarming spikes in both road fatalities and arrests related to driving under the influence in Mpumalanga and the Eastern Cape this Easter.
Image: Timothy Bernard / Independent Media
A grim shadow was cast over the country’s roads. What should have been a festive period filled with faith, family, and tradition instead turned deadly for dozens.
In the provinces of Mpumalanga and the Eastern Cape, authorities reported alarming spikes in both road fatalities and arrests related to driving under the influence.
In Mpumalanga alone, a devastating toll was recorded: 18 lives lost between Thursday and Saturday. Many of the victims perished in horrific collisions, with the Nkangala District being particularly hard hit.
Among the deadliest incidents was a brutal head-on crash along the N4 toll road, between Machadodorp and Belfast, where six people lost their lives.
Five were declared dead at the scene; a sixth died later in the hospital. The same route saw another deadly event when a minibus taxi overturned near Middelburg, killing two and injuring 13 others.
In yet another tragedy on the R35 between Bethal and Middelburg, a collision involving an MPV and a large truck claimed three more lives. These are just a few of the many stories that have left families mourning across the province.
Reacting to the carnage, Mpumalanga’s MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie, didn’t mince words. “Many of these crashes could’ve been prevented,” he said, urging motorists to stop dangerous overtaking and reckless speeding. He also called on public transport operators to prioritise roadworthy vehicles and regular rest breaks for drivers.
Beyond the fatalities, a crackdown on traffic violations saw more than 13,500 vehicles pulled over by officers across Mpumalanga. Over 2 700 summonses were issued, and more than 100 motorists were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Macie commended law enforcement teams for their vigilance, emphasising the need for ongoing pressure to keep reckless drivers off the roads. “We need to remain relentless,” he said. The situation in the Eastern Cape echoed that of Mpumalanga, albeit with fewer deaths, but a staggering number of arrests.
''According to provincial authorities, nearly 500 people were arrested for drunk driving across the Easter period. Department of Transport spokesperson Unathi Binqose credited intensified patrols for helping reduce both crashes and fatalities.
He urged motorists to stay alert, particularly along high-traffic corridors like the N2 and R61.
“We’re seeing improvements, but the message is clear: responsible driving saves lives.”Meanwhile, in Limpopo, road safety operations took a bizarre turn when two men were caught attempting to bribe traffic officers in Polokwane.
The suspects allegedly offered R600 and R100, respectively, to avoid drunk driving charges. Both were arrested on the spot.
The Star
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