By More Matshediso
Pretoria - Three foreign national were arrested for not having proper documentation during a multi-disciplinary roadblock led by women in Law Enforcement in the Northern Cape on Friday.
The Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison said during the two operations which were done on the N1 and N12, about 958 cars were stopped and checked, 75 summonses were issued on general roadworthiness of vehicles and driver fitness.
The department said this was to ensure road safety of road users on the backdrop of Transport Month.
“Of the 85 trucks that were weighed during the operations, only one was overloaded which is encouraging as we aim to see a 100% compliance rate, and we hope this continues and all road users come on board in compliance,” the department said.
The department said the roadblock, called Operation Basadi, was led by 70 women and was supported by the department’s MEC Martha Bartlett and Head of Department, Steven Jonkers.
“As a department, we encourage such operations and it shows women in law enforcement are making strides and are encouraging other women to consider law enforcement as a career path,” the department said.
The operation was in collaboration with the South African Police Services (SAPS), South African National Defence Force (SANDF), Sol Plaatje Municipality traffics, Provincial Traffics, Jan Kemp traffic station, Kimberley traffic station, Home Affairs, EMS, Department of Correctional Services and other neighbouring traffic stations.
It says motorists were also thrilled with the operation that unfolded on Friday with most appreciating the purpose of the operation, saying it shows women continue to take a leading role in protecting their communities.
“This is a great initiative from the women. I must really applaud them. It looks good to see women taking a leading role and having an entire operation by themselves. It shows that women are capable,” said one motorist.
Cynthia Moeti of Law Enforcement from the department said it was a great and fruitful operation which all the women enjoyed.
“We checked for the general roadworthiness of the vehicle and driver fitness and also emphasising road safety because as much as we want people to comply, we also want to educate and encourage them to keep safe on the roads,” she said.
The department encouraged people to keep fastening a seatbelt and refrain from speeding and comply with general road safety rules.
“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility and it’s in working together that we can achieve safer roads for all,” the department said. - SAnews.gov.za
