Over 7,000 fines issued in one week as Western Cape cracks down on festive road lawlessness
More than 7 000 traffic fines issued in festive week as speeding and drunk driving surge
Image: Brendan Magaar/African News Agency (ANA)
More than 7,000 traffic fines were issued across the Western Cape in just one week as authorities intensified festive season road safety operations, highlighting ongoing challenges around driver behaviour, speeding and alcohol abuse.
Between December 8 and 14, 2025, Provincial Traffic Law Enforcement ramped up operations as part of the Western Cape Government’s festive season road safety campaign. During this period, traffic officers stopped and checked more than 44,000 vehicles through over 200 integrated roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints and speed control operations across the province.
The heightened enforcement resulted in 119 arrests, with 81 motorists taken into custody for driving under the influence of alcohol. Alcohol remains one of the leading contributors to serious and fatal crashes, as it impairs judgement, slows reaction time and increases risky driving behaviour.
Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku warned that unsafe behaviour continues to place lives at risk.
“As we move deeper into the festive season, our message remains clear: enforcement alone cannot save lives," he said.
"Alcohol abuse, speeding and irresponsible pedestrian behaviour continue to claim lives unnecessarily, and we appeal to every road user to take personal responsibility and make safe choices so that families are not left grieving during what should be a time of rest and celebration.”
Speeding emerged as a major contributor to the high number of fines, with more than 250 speeding offences recorded during the week. The highest speed detected was 163km/h in a 120km/h zone, raising alarm about the continued disregard for speed limits on provincial roads.
Chief Director for Traffic Management Maxine Bezuidenhout said officers would continue to maintain a strong presence throughout the festive period.
“Our traffic officers are visible across the province, working around the clock through roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints and speed operations to protect all road users,” she said.
“However, enforcement can only go so far. We urge drivers to obey speed limits, never drink and drive, and for pedestrians to remain vigilant, visible and sober when walking near roads.”
The week also saw 14 pedestrian fatalities on Western Cape roads, underlining the vulnerability of pedestrians, particularly where alcohol use and poor visibility are involved.
Provincial Traffic Law Enforcement will continue sustained operations on major routes, interprovincial corridors and high-risk areas as travel volumes increase over the festive season.
Authorities have again urged motorists and pedestrians alike to exercise patience, responsibility and caution to help prevent further loss of life on the province’s roads.
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