19 suspected drunk drivers arrested in Maletswai operation

Nineteen motorists were arrested on suspicion of drunk driving during an overnight road safety operation led entirely by women traffic officers in Maletswai.

The operation formed part of the Eastern Cape Department of Transport’s Women’s Month road safety campaign, which was launched in the Joe Gqabi District on Saturday.

The campaign began with road safety education activities during the day before officers shifted their focus to a targeted drunk driving operation overnight.

According to the department, the operation demonstrated the professionalism and determination of women traffic officers working to reduce road crashes and remove allegedly intoxicated motorists from the province’s roads.

Eastern Cape Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha commended the officers for their role in the operation.

“The women of the Eastern Cape Department of Transport have sent a powerful message that road safety knows no gender—it demands commitment, professionalism and courage,” Nqatha said.

“Their decisive action in removing suspected drunk drivers from our roads is a reminder that every life saved matters.

“As we celebrate Women’s Month, we salute these remarkable officers for leading from the front in protecting our communities.”

Nqatha also issued a warning to motorists who continue to drink and drive.

“To those who continue to drink and drive, our message is simple: there is no room for recklessness on our roads, and the law will catch up with you,” he said.

The department said the campaign would continue throughout Women’s Month, with similar law enforcement operations planned across the Eastern Cape.

Motorists have again been warned that those caught driving under the influence of alcohol will face the full force of the law.