Johannesburg's festive season sees 173 motorists arrested for drunk driving in just one week
JMPD says drunk driving remains a major threat to road safety during the festive season.
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The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has arrested 173 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol in just one week as part of intensified festive season law enforcement operations across the city.
The arrests were made between December 8 and December 14, 2025, during roadblocks, roving patrols and targeted operations conducted in all regions of Johannesburg under the department’s Tshela Thupa initiative.
JMPD Chief of Police, Commissioner Patrick Jaca, described the figures as alarming, warning that drunk driving remains one of the biggest threats to road safety during the festive season.
“The arrest of 173 motorists in just seven days is a number that should shock every responsible citizen,” Jaca said.
“It is a stark reminder of the reckless and life-threatening behaviour that continues to plague our roads, especially as the festive season peaks.”
He emphasised that enforcement efforts are aimed at preventing loss of life, adding that each arrest represents a potential tragedy avoided.
“Every single drunk driver we remove from the road is a potential life saved, and a preventable tragedy averted,” Jaca said.
The JMPD reiterated that driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious criminal offence. Motorists arrested during the operations will be formally processed and face prosecution.
According to the department, the consequences of a DUI conviction include heavy fines, possible imprisonment, and the suspension or revocation of a driving licence.
The metro police said it is maintaining a zero-tolerance approach to traffic violations and urged residents and visitors to make responsible decisions during the festive period. Motorists are encouraged to designate sober drivers, plan ahead when consuming alcohol, and make use of e-hailing services, taxis or public transport.
The public has also been urged to report suspected drunk drivers to the JMPD.
The department confirmed that high-visibility Tshela Thupa operations will continue around the clock throughout December and January.
“Our message is clear: If you drink and drive, you will be arrested,” the JMPD said.
The metro police said it remains committed to protecting all road users and will continue to escalate enforcement efforts to curb dangerous and reckless behaviour on Johannesburg’s roads.
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