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Easter Road Deaths Fall 18% as South Africa Steps Up Drunk-Driving Crackdown

The transport minister says intensified holiday roadblocks are starting to save lives.

Overview

  • Transport Minister Barbara Creecy reported 291 deaths in the early Easter period, down from 356 last year, with fatal crashes declining to 255.
  • National operations set up 321 roadblocks and checked 374,161 vehicles, which led to more than 500 arrests for driving under the influence.
  • The Johannesburg metro police recorded 121 drunk-driving arrests in the first 48 hours of their campaign and attended two fatal crashes.
  • Eastern Cape officials said more than 130 drivers were arrested for drunk driving across the province, including 71 in a 24-hour sweep in Amathole called Operation Paseka.
  • Authorities said high-visibility checkpoints will stay in place through the holiday with a zero-tolerance stance as traffic volumes increase.