KZN transport warns no one is above the law after pastor’s alleged drunk-driving arrest

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport says it will enforce road laws equally after a pastor from Mtubatuba who was stopped on the R618 allegedly tested above the legal blood alcohol limit and responded by quoting a Bible verse about forgiveness.

How the stop unfolded

Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) officers stopped the pastor’s vehicle while he was travelling with a convoy of congregants to a baptism and cleansing ceremony on the R618 over the weekend. Officials reported detecting a strong smell of alcohol during the stop and said a breathalyser test showed his blood alcohol content exceeded the legal limit.

Department: no exceptions to enforcement

KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya said authorities would not make exceptions when enforcing road traffic laws. The department emphasised equal application of the law after the pastor cited a Bible verse about forgiveness in response to his arrest, the department said.

AARTO demerit system reminder

Sibiya also reminded motorists that the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) demerit point system is expected to take effect in September. He outlined how demerit points will be applied:

• Points will be added to a driver’s record when a motorist pays a fine, receives an enforcement order or is convicted by a court.
• Minor traffic offences, such as using a cellphone while driving or failing to stop at a stop sign, carry one demerit point.
• More serious offences, including driving under the influence of alcohol, can attract up to six demerit points.
• Fully licensed drivers may accumulate a maximum of 15 demerit points. Authorities will suspend a driver’s licence for three months for every point above the 15-point limit.
• Drivers may only have their licences suspended twice; a third suspension will result in the permanent cancellation of the driver’s licence. The department said every motorist will begin the new system with a clean slate.

What happened next

The source reported the arrest and the department’s statements but did not provide further details on charges, court dates or the specific scripture the pastor quoted.