Mpumalanga will not tolerate any lawlessness during festive season

By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane

A multi-disciplinary roadblock was conducted on the N4 Middleburg Toll Plaza during the official launch of the 2024 Provincial Festive Season Road Safety Campaign on Thursday 5 December, led by Mpumalanga MEC for DCSSL(Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison), Jackie Macie, alongside MEC Thulasizwe Thomo from the DPWRT(Department of Public Works, Roads & Trasnport).

About 120 vehicles were reportedly searched, including 218 people who were also searched for illegal substances and firearms. An additional 20 people were reportedly tested with morphotouch in a bid to locate wanted suspects.

DCSSL said in statement that 159 fines were issued for different violations, 2 vehicles were ere issued with notices to discontinue, while 9 mini bus taxis were impounded after they were discovered to be unroadworthy. Additionally, over 90 vehicles were weighed and 23 warnings were issued at the Middleburg Weighbridge.

In his address during the launch, MEC Macie revealed that the high number of crashes recorded on routes such as the N2, N4, N12, N17, N23, R40 and R573, have prompted a decision by the province to ensure police visibility to curb the accidents that are often fatal.

“ There was an agreement with Municipalities that was made during MUNIMEC Meeting that the Municipalities will work closely with the provincial traffic officers and police to ensure a safer Festive Season and beyond,” said MEC Macie.

DCSSL added that a number of activities such as awareness campaigns, rest stops, alcohol blitz, block patrols, speed checks, are already underway in line with the campaign, and form part of the attempt by the Province to ensure safety for all road users.

“ As part of the launch, both MECs(Macie and Thomo) unveiled 34 new vehicles for Traffic Law Enforcement Unit,” said DCSSL.

Numerous stakeholders who formed part of the launch included; the Executive Mayor of Steve Tshwete Local Municipality, Mhlonishwa Masilela, SAPS(South African Police Service), National Traffic Police, Provincial Traffic Law Enforcement and Trasport Inspectorate, Steve Tshwete Local Municipality Traffic and the Department of Home Affairs, to name but a few.