Kraaifontein taxi driver arrested for assault on traffic officer

A minibus taxi driver has been arrested after allegedly assaulting a provincial traffic officer during a week-long road safety crackdown across the Western Cape that saw 88 motorists taken into custody.

The incident unfolded on Sunday, March 22, on Old Paarl Road in Brackenfell, where the driver reportedly ran a red light while over the legal alcohol limit. When officers attempted to stop him, he allegedly resisted arrest and physically assaulted a female officer, leaving her with bruises, before trying to flee the scene.

He was later detained and handed over to Kraaifontein police. He faces charges of reckless driving, driving under the influence, and resisting arrest.

Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku condemned the alleged attack, highlighting the dangers traffic officers face daily.

“Our traffic officers face big risks every day to keep our province’s roads safe, and this incident shows just how dangerous their work can be. I’m glad the officer is okay and was able to help make sure the driver was arrested. This driver’s behaviour was completely unacceptable. We thank the vehicle owner for helping, and we will make sure anyone who threatens our officers faces the toughest consequences,” he said.

The arrest formed part of intensified enforcement operations conducted by Provincial Traffic Services between March 16 and 22.

During 257 roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints and patrols, officers stopped 38,810 vehicles across the province.

These operations resulted in 88 arrests, including 50 for drunk driving, while 8,584 fines were issued for various traffic and vehicle-related offences.

Authorities also impounded 38 vehicles and discontinued the use of 168 vehicles deemed unroadworthy due to serious defects. A further 320 speeding violations were recorded.

Officials said the enforcement drive is aimed at reducing crashes and improving road safety by removing dangerous drivers and unsafe vehicles from the roads.

The latest figures come amid growing concern over road fatalities in the province. Over the same period, 21 crashes claimed 22 lives, with pedestrians accounting for 13 of the deaths, underlining their vulnerability on Western Cape roads.

Sileku warned that risks are expected to increase with higher traffic volumes ahead of month-end and the Easter long weekend.

“With the end of the month and the Easter long weekend approaching, traffic is expected to increase, along with the risk of drunk driving. We are stepping up enforcement during this high-risk period. Every officer on the road is working hard to prevent crashes and save lives. We urge all residents to drive sober, stay patient, and help ensure everyone reaches their destination safely,” he said.