173 Arrests in a Week: Joburg Police Clamp Down on Drunk Driving as Festive Season Peaks

173 Arrests in One Week: Joburg Sends a Clear Festive Season Warning

As braais burn late, end-of-year parties spill into the early hours and Johannesburg’s roads grow busier by the day, metro police have delivered a sobering reality check: 173 motorists were arrested for drunk driving in just seven days.

The arrests were made between 8 and 14 December 2025, during intensified festive season operations carried out across all regions of the city. Roadblocks, roving patrols and targeted enforcement formed part of the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department’s Tshela Thupa initiative, a high-visibility campaign aimed at curbing reckless behaviour on the roads.

“A Number That Should Shock Us All”

JMPD Chief of Police Commissioner Patrick Jaca did not mince his words, describing the figures as deeply concerning.

He said the number of arrests in such a short period should alarm every road user, particularly at a time when families are travelling, socialising and celebrating. According to Jaca, drunk driving remains one of the leading causes of serious crashes and fatalities during the festive season.

Behind every arrest, he stressed, is a life potentially saved, not just the driver’s, but passengers, pedestrians and other motorists who share the road.

Festive Season Culture Meets Road Safety Reality

In Johannesburg, December is synonymous with celebration, office parties, weddings, family gatherings and nights out that stretch into the early morning. On social media, many residents have reacted to the arrests with a mix of concern and support, with some praising the JMPD for “finally being visible” and others admitting that drunk driving is still too easily normalised.

Road safety experts have long warned that festive cheer often comes with relaxed attitudes toward alcohol and driving, a dangerous combination on already congested urban roads.

Zero Tolerance, Real Consequences

The JMPD has reiterated that driving under the influence is a criminal offence, not a minor traffic violation. Motorists arrested during the operations will be formally charged and prosecuted.

A DUI conviction can result in heavy fines, possible jail time, and the suspension or cancellation of a driving licence, consequences that can follow drivers long after the holiday season ends.

Police are urging residents and visitors to plan ahead: use e-hailing services, taxis or public transport, designate sober drivers, or simply don’t drive if alcohol is involved.

Tshela Thupa Operations Continue

The metro police have confirmed that Tshela Thupa operations will continue day and night throughout December and January, with more roadblocks and patrols expected as holiday traffic increases.

The message from JMPD is blunt and unwavering: drink and drive, and you will be arrested.

As Johannesburg heads into the busiest weeks of the festive season, authorities are hoping that visibility, enforcement and public cooperation will help ensure that celebrations don’t end in tragedy.

{Source: IOL}

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