15 killed over Easter as 300+ drunk drivers arrested in Eastern Cape

Eastern Cape – At least 15 people lost their lives in three major crashes across the Eastern Cape during the Easter travel period, as law enforcement officers arrested more than 300 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol.

The figures highlight the ongoing dangers on the province’s roads, despite intensified safety operations and a generally stable traffic environment on major routes.

Fatal crashes recorded across province

According to the Eastern Cape Department of Transport, three major crashes occurred during the period, on 31 March, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday, with the latter being the most severe.

All three incidents were head-on collisions, a type of crash often associated with high-risk driving behaviour such as reckless overtaking or driver fatigue.

Two of the crashes were recorded on the R67 between KwaMaqoma (Fort Beaufort) and Komani, while the third — which claimed seven lives — occurred on the M17 in Gqeberha.

While the incidents resulted in significant loss of life, officials noted that they did not occur on the province’s busiest long-distance corridors.

Over 300 drunk driving arrests

During the same period, law enforcement operations intensified across the province, leading to the arrest of more than 300 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Authorities say these operations formed part of a coordinated road safety strategy involving traffic officers, emergency services, and the South African Police Service working together under a provincial command structure.

The department believes that removing intoxicated drivers from the roads contributed to preventing further crashes.

Major routes remain relatively stable

Despite the fatalities, the Eastern Cape’s major transport corridors showed signs of improvement compared to previous years.

Routes that have historically recorded high numbers of crashes — including:

• the N2 between Mthatha and Gqeberha (Kei Cuttings)
• the R61 towards the Western Cape
• the N6 linking inland provinces

— remained largely accident-free during the peak travel period.

This has been attributed to increased visibility of law enforcement officers, roadblocks, and public awareness campaigns.

MEC commends road safety teams

Eastern Cape Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha commended road safety teams for their efforts during the Easter period, acknowledging the long hours worked by officers and emergency personnel.

He highlighted the importance of an integrated approach, where different law enforcement agencies collaborate rather than operate in isolation.

Call for continued vigilance

The Department of Transport has indicated that a full analysis of Easter traffic data will be conducted to identify areas requiring improvement.

Motorists have been urged to remain vigilant, obey traffic laws, and avoid risky behaviour, including driving under the influence of alcohol.

Authorities emphasised that road safety remains a year-round responsibility and that enforcement operations will continue beyond holiday periods.