IN A TOUGH new stance against drunk driving, Durban authorities have publicly identified Seebran Prydeshan as the first named offender following his conviction. This marks the beginning of a 'name and shame' approach that forms part of the #NenzaniLaEzweni operation, which has already led to over 4,400 arrests since August.
The KZN Transport MEC warns that more names will follow as blood test results confirm numerous offenders exceeded legal limits
The blood test results for 24 motorists arrested for drunk driving in Umhlanga Rocks returned, with several drivers found to be over the legal alcohol limit.
These arrests were made around the Oceans Mall precinct during roadblocks conducted in September last year.
The tests are now being used as key evidence in court cases.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human settlements, Siboniso Duma, said the results were an important step in ensuring successful prosecutions of drunk drivers.
“Blood test results are coming back positive, and this is crucial evidence for successful prosecution,” Duma said.
Since August 15, 2025, more than 4,400 motorists have been arrested for drunk driving across the province under the #NenzaniLaEzweni operation.
Duma praised the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) for working closely with law enforcement and government departments.
“We wish to commend RTI for working efficiently with SAPS, Durban Metro Police, the Department of Health, as well as the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development,” he said.
One of the motorists arrested, Seebran Prydeshan, has already been found guilty in the Durban Magistrates Court.
“Our case was strengthened by blood alcohol analysis, which showed that he had consumed too much alcohol and exceeded the legal limit,” Duma said.
The MEC confirmed that more names and details of convicted motorists will be released as cases are finalised.
He also thanked the Department of Health and eThekwini Municipality’s Health Unit for deploying trained nurses to collect blood samples from suspected drunk drivers.
“These nurses are legally authorised to draw blood samples, in line with Section 37(2)(a) of the Criminal Procedure Act 51/1977.” he said.
Duma further announced that the newly appointed Head of the Department of Transport, Zibusiso Dlamini, has been instructed to strengthen road safety plans, with a strong focus on trucks.
“Last weekend alone, we buried 17 people who died in accidents involving trucks,” he said.
He warned that roads should not be treated as playgrounds by irresponsible drivers.
“Our road networks, which are being built and repaired, must not be used by reckless drivers. These elements must be removed because they are costing our country a fortune,” Duma said.
According to the MEC, road accidents cost South Africa more than R164 billion a year, which is about 3.4% of the country’s GDP. The Road Accident Fund (RAF) also paid out over R45.6 billion in claims during the 2023-2024 financial year.
“Finally, we cannot afford to have families destroyed by irresponsible drivers. RTI will continue to act decisively,” Duma said.