City Traffic Services Concerned about Popularity of Drag-Racing

Two motorists were arrested for reckless or negligent driving during a drag-racing operation in Ottery on Tuesday 10 August. One motorist, a 19-year-old male driving a Mercedes AMG belonging to his father, was caught driving at 156 km/h in a 70km/h zone along Prince George Drive. Another one hundred and thirty eight (138) speeding fines and forty three (43) traffic fines were also recorded.

Meanwhile, a man was stopped on the M5 and arrested for possession of a stolen motorcycle, resisting arrest and possession of narcotics, including a bag of TIK, a bag of dagga and half a Mandrax tablet. It was found that the suspect has previous convictions for house-breaking and possession of narcotics.

Later in the week, on Thursday 12 August, Traffic Officers arrested three motorists for reckless driving in Montague Gardens when they caught them participating in an illegal street race. One of the drivers was arrested at his residence after he evaded the road closures. During the arrest, the suspect's father advised officers that he had warned his son of the dangers of street racing on many occasion. Another parent was furious with his son for allowing a friend to drag-race in his car. The officers who conducted the operation expressed concern afterwards, noting that many spectators had come to watch the 'event' and some had brought their young children along.

One other motorist was arrested for drunk driving, while forty three (43) received traffic fines for various offences ranging from failure to wear a safety belt to vehicle defects.

"We appeal to parents to set a good example as responsible drivers, and teach their children about road safety. Going out after midnight on a school night to watch illegal street racing is a terrible example for our young 'would-be' drivers," said media spokesperson for Cape Town Traffic Services, Chief Inspector Merle Lourens.

Issued by:
Communication Department
City of Cape Town