KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Bheki Ntuli says drivers in the province should ensure the safety of commuters and other drivers this coming festive season.
Ntuli says his department has beefed up its manpower with over 24 000 police officers that will be working throughout the province.
Over 2 000 roadblocks will be held in the province during the holiday season. Ntuli has issued a warning for all those who will be driving under the influence of alcohol.
“If you are drunk and driving – we will have to get a place to keep you so that you will not put other people in danger. If people are in town – they should enjoy a crime free shopping. We also know that there are looming taxi feuds. We are working hand in hand with bus drivers -so that they stop fighting over unnecessary things. “
Meanwhile, taxi killings in KwaZulu-Natal still remain a concern.
South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) Chief Strategic Manager, Bafana Magagula says even though they have been able to visit all provinces to speak to drivers about the Hlokomela campaign – which allows motorists and taxi passengers the opportunity to anonymously report the behaviour of a taxi driver – they still have a huge challenge with industry killings.
Magagula has urged members of the community and the police to work together in combating this crime.
“It is still a challenge. We’d like to urge the community to assist. Also when the police arrest these people – they must not be given bail. The justice system must be strong. The fact that there are people who sit and plan to kill others – is really a huge problem. People must think before they kill. They must think how their kids would feel seeing them dead.”
