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Law-abiding motorists and pedestrians in Gauteng are facing danger from drivers who speed, run red lights, and drive under the influence of drugs and alcohol. The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng demands that Premier Panyaza Lesufi present a clear and measurable action plan to tackle reckless behaviour on our roads and ensure the safety of our residents.

In the past 12 months alone, Gauteng has recorded hundreds of fatal crashes and well over 200 road deaths. In one incident, twenty pupils sustained injuries when a minibus overturned near West Park Cemetery. The driver was arrested on drunk and reckless driving charges.

The second-quarter SAPS crime statistics for 2025 reveal that driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs statistics have increased from 6876 in quarter 2 of 2024-2025 to 9529 in quarter 2 of 2025-2026. This represents a 38.5 % (2653) increase. Gauteng is the highest contributor in the country at 46.6%. It also accounts for 25 police stations reporting driving under the influence incidents in the country.

Communities across the province have repeatedly expressed frustration at the absence of a firm and visible law enforcement to prevent these tragedies. While blitz operations occur, drivers know that consequences are rare and short-lived. Without accountability, reckless drivers continue to turn our roads into danger zones.

The DA will be presenting an official Member’s Statement to the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, urging both the Premier and his executive to implement prompt and decisive measures.

A DA-led Gauteng Provincial Government would combat reckless driving through sustained enforcement, including permanent deployment of traffic and police units to hotspots, speed enforcement, vehicle impoundment and stricter penalties for repeat offenders. We would also fast-track the prosecution of offenders and implement behaviour-change programmes.

Issued by Michael Sun MPL - DA Gauteng Spokesperson for Community Safety