The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport said it will apply the law equally to everyone after a pastor arrested for alleged drunk driving responded by quoting a Bible verse about forgiveness
The Mtubatuba pastor was stopped by road traffic inspectorate officers on the R618 while leading a convoy of congregants to a baptism and cleansing ceremony over the weekend
Officials said that they detected a strong smell of alcohol, and a breathalyser test allegedly recorded a blood alcohol content above the legal limit
Transport Department spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya has warned transgressors of tough sanctions under the demerit point system that is set to be effective in September
“Points are added to your name when a fine is paid, an enforcement order is served, or you are found guilty by a court. Minor infringements [like using a cellphone while driving or skipping a stop sign] add 1 point, while serious offenses [like driving under the influence] can add 6 points
“Fully licensed drivers can accumulate up to 15 points. Exceeding this limit results in the suspension of your driver’s license for 3 months for every point over 15.”
The department said every motorist will start on a clean slate, adding that a driver’s license can only be suspended twice, with a third breach resulting in the permanent cancellation of the driver’s license
Never miss a major story. Get breaking news and the latest developments from South Africa and beyond as they happen
Get the whole picture 💡
Take a look at the topic timeline for all related articles
Trending News
- in 22 minutes
- 2 hours ago
- 5 hours ago
- 6 hours ago
- 7 hours ago
- 7 hours ago
- 8 hours ago
- 8 hours ago
- 8 hours ago
- 9 hours ago
- 10 hours ago
- 10 hours ago
More in Local
NPA says money meant for critical supplies at Tembisa hospital used to fund ‘Maumela syndicate’
20 July 2026 17:05
State not opposing bail for Mkhwanazi and co-accused
20 July 2026 16:25
Emfuleni R16m fleet scandal: Four missing vehicles traced by police
- Emfuleni municipality
