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MEDIA STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 15 DECEMBER 2025 173 MOTORISTS ARRESTED FOR DRUNK DRIVING IN ONE WEEK AS PART OF TSHELA THUPA OPERATIONS The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) is deeply concerned to announce the arrest of 173 motorists for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) of alcohol between Monday, 8th December 2025, and Sunday, 14th December 2025. These arrests were the result of intensified roadblocks, roving patrols, and targeted festive season operations conducted across all regions of the City of Johannesburg as part of the department’s Tshela Thupa initiatives. JMPD Chief of Police, Commissioner Patrick Jaca, stressed the department's unwavering commitment to road safety. He said, "The arrest of 173 motorists in just seven days is a number that should shock every responsible citizen. It is a stark reminder of the reckless and life-threatening behaviour that continues to plague our roads, especially as the festive season peaks. Every single drunk driver we remove from the road is a potential life saved, and a preventable tragedy averted." The JMPD wishes to remind the public that, driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious criminal offence. Those arrested will be processed and will face the full might of the law. The consequences of a DUI conviction include hefty fines, potential imprisonment, and the suspension or revocation of a driving license. We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to traffic violations and urge all residents and visitors to make responsible choices. Designate a Sober Driver and plan ahead if you intend to consume alcohol. Utilise e-hailing services, taxis, or public transport. Report suspected drunk drivers immediately to the JMPD. We are intensifying our high-visibility Tshela Tupha operations 24/7 throughout December and January. Our message is clear: If you drink and drive, you will be arrested. The JMPD remains committed to ensuring the safety of all road users and we'll continue to escalate our enforcement efforts to combat this dangerous behaviour. ENDS Issued by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department Communications Unit #SaferJoburg #JoburgRoadSafety #BuyaMthethoManjeNamhlanje #FestiveTshelaThupa #CoJFestiveSeasonSafety