Three years of arrest data show why road safety needs more than October

Johannesburg recorded 26,578 DUI arrests between 2023 and 2025, highlighting the need for sustained enforcement and prevention beyond Transport Month.

Between 2023 and 2025, the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) recorded 26,578 arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol, an average of one arrest every hour for three years. This data, analysed by Aware.org, serves as a stark reminder that the fight against drinking and driving cannot be confined to Transport Month in October or the festive season.

An average of one DUI arrest every hour for three years is a reminder that drinking and driving cannot be something we focus on only in Transport Month or the festive season.

Mokebe Thulo, CEO of Aware.org, emphasised that while arrest figures are a critical indicator of enforcement activity, they also reflect the persistent nature of the problem. It is important to distinguish between arrest activity and the overall prevalence of drinking and driving, as these figures do not necessarily measure the total number of offenders but rather the effectiveness of detection efforts.

The data underscores the necessity for year-round, high-visibility enforcement and consistent public awareness campaigns. Road safety stakeholders are calling for a shift in strategy that prioritises sustained behavioural change rather than seasonal crackdowns, ensuring that the message of responsible driving remains a priority for all road users throughout the entire calendar year.