JMPD’s drunk driving shocker!

Share current article via FacebookShare current article via PinterestShare current article via WhatsAppShare current article via TwitterShare current article via LinkedInNewsJMPD’s drunk driving shocker!By: Lesiba Dikhoba • 2h agoAdd as a preferred source on GoogleFollow on Google NewsListen to this article-00:00lead-art-block.fullscreen-enterExpandAlex Mahlobo (65) from Soweto shared his experience after he was arrested for driving under the influence. Rehabilitation programme to help motorists’ behaviour rethinkMANY Mzansi motorists mistakenly believe having only one drink before getting behind the wheel is safe, but two Soweto men are warning otherwise after facing arrest and court orders.

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Thabang Kamanga (25) was returning from a family gathering after having only one beer when traffic cops stopped him.

A breathalyser test proved he was over the legal limit.

“Actually, I wasn’t supposed to drink and drive,” he said.

Taken to court, he was ordered to attend National Institute for Crime Prevention and the Reintegration of Offenders (Nicro’s) Shifting Gears Diversion Programme.

At first, I took it as they were wasting my time, but when I got here I managed to get the help I needed, he said.

Similarly, 65-year-old Alex Mahlobo was nabbed and forced to pay R1 500 bail after driving under the influence of only one cup of umqombothi.

The two men shared their experiences in Mofolo South, Soweto, on Tuesday, 27 October, to highlight the programme run by AWARE.org .

Alex warned others against taking the risk.

“If you drink, it’s better to have a friend who’s going to drive you home or take an Uber home,” he said.

He also urged caution for pedestrians: “Drive slowly in the townships, so if a kid gets on the street you’ll be able to stop.”

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CEO Mokebe Thulo explained that the six-week course looks at the psychological, emotional and financial consequences of dangerous behaviour.

Notably, 95% of participants don’t re-offend within 12 months.

Research using JMPD data shows that 95% of people arrested for driving under the influence are men, predominantly between the ages of 25 and 44, heavily caught between 6pm and midnight.

A South African journalist passionate about telling stories that inform, engage and make an impact. He covers breaking news, crime, courts, and community issues, with a focus on producing accurate, compelling journalism that resonates with readers.

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