The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has issued a warning to motorists ahead of the festive season after arresting 164 drivers for driving under the influence of alcohol between 2 and 8 November 2026. The arrests were made across various regions of Johannesburg during traffic enforcement operations, with all suspects detained and processed at South African Police Service (SAPS) stations. As residents prepare for year-end celebrations and holiday travel, JMPD has confirmed that roadblocks, patrols and alcohol testing operations will continue 24 hours a day.
The department has reiterated its zero-tolerance approach to reckless driving, warning motorists that drinking and driving puts passengers, pedestrians and other road users at risk.
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla has urged residents to make transport arrangements before consuming alcohol rather than taking the risk of driving afterwards.
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Festive Season Warning Comes After 164 Drunk Driving Arrests
The warning follows a week of enforcement operations across Johannesburg, during which 164 motorists were arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.
According to JMPD, the arrests took place between Monday, 2 November, and Sunday, 8 November 2026, involving officers from various regions and specialised units.
All 164 suspects were detained and processed at SAPS stations across the City of Johannesburg. They are expected to face criminal charges in court.
The department has not released a breakdown of arrests by suburb or region, nor has it provided details of the individual cases.
However, the number of arrests has prompted another reminder about the importance of responsible driving as the festive period approaches.
With year-end functions, family gatherings, parties and holiday activities on the calendar, motorists are being encouraged to consider how they will travel home before attending events where alcohol may be consumed.
JMPD Warns Motorists Against Drinking and Driving
JMPD has maintained that it will not tolerate reckless driving behaviour that places innocent lives in danger.
Driving under the influence remains a major road safety concern because alcohol can impair judgement, concentration and reaction times.
A driver who has consumed alcohol may struggle to respond appropriately to sudden changes in traffic conditions, increasing the risk of a collision.
The potential consequences extend beyond the person behind the wheel.
Passengers, pedestrians, cyclists and motorists travelling in other vehicles may also be affected by decisions made by an impaired driver.
As Gauteng residents begin preparing for the festive season, JMPD is reminding motorists that road safety starts with individual responsibility.
The department’s warning applies to everyday journeys, including short trips home from restaurants, entertainment venues and social gatherings.
Choosing to drive after drinking can have serious consequences regardless of the distance involved.
Roadblocks and Alcohol Testing to Continue Around the Clock
Motorists travelling through Johannesburg should expect continued traffic law enforcement in the weeks ahead.
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla confirmed that operational roadblocks, routine patrols and Alcohol Evidence Centres (AECs) will continue operating 24 hours a day.
These measures form part of the department’s ongoing efforts to identify motorists suspected of driving under the influence and enforce road traffic laws.
The department has not provided specific locations for upcoming roadblocks or announced a separate festive season operation in the information released.
However, its confirmation of round-the-clock enforcement makes it clear that motorists remain subject to traffic checks throughout the day and night.
The department’s message is not simply about avoiding arrest.
It is about preventing dangerous behaviour before it results in injuries or loss of life.
Motorists are therefore being urged to comply with road traffic laws and make responsible decisions whenever they travel.
Plan Your Transport Before Festive Season Celebrations
With December approaching, residents attending social gatherings are being encouraged to arrange safe transport before leaving home.
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla has specifically advised motorists to designate a sober driver or use alternative transport if they intend to consume alcohol.
“If you intend to consume alcohol, please plan by designating a sober driver or using alternative transport options, such as e-hailing services,” Fihla said.
Planning ahead can help motorists avoid situations where they have consumed alcohol but have no safe way of returning home.
Those attending year-end functions, birthday celebrations, concerts or family gatherings can arrange transport in advance instead of making decisions after drinking.
For groups travelling together, agreeing on a designated driver beforehand is another practical option.
Where e-hailing services are available, residents can also consider arranging a trip rather than using their own vehicles.
Fihla concluded his warning with a clear instruction:
“If you drink, do not drive.”
What This Means for Gauteng Residents
The JMPD’s warning is particularly relevant to Gauteng residents preparing for increased social activity during November and December.
Although the 164 arrests were recorded in Johannesburg, motorists from surrounding areas regularly travel into the city for work, shopping, entertainment and family visits.
Residents planning to attend events in Johannesburg should be aware that JMPD has confirmed continued roadblocks, patrols and alcohol-related enforcement operations.
The arrests also highlight the potential legal consequences of driving under the influence.
All 164 suspects were processed at police stations and are expected to face criminal charges.
For families preparing to travel during the festive period, the warning serves as a reminder to prioritise safe driving practices throughout their journeys.
Passengers can also play a role by avoiding journeys with drivers who have consumed alcohol and helping arrange safer transport alternatives.
The department has not announced additional restrictions or changes to existing road traffic laws.
Its current message focuses on enforcing those laws and encouraging motorists to take responsibility before getting behind the wheel.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Drivers Were Arrested for Drunk Driving in Johannesburg?
JMPD arrested 164 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol between 2 and 8 November 2026.
Will JMPD Conduct Roadblocks During the Festive Season?
JMPD has confirmed that its operational roadblocks, patrols and Alcohol Evidence Centres will continue operating 24 hours a day. It has not released a separate festive season roadblock schedule.
What Happens to Motorists Arrested for Drunk Driving?
According to JMPD, the 164 suspects were detained and processed at SAPS stations across Johannesburg and will face criminal charges in court.
What Does JMPD Advise Drivers Attending Year-End Functions?
The department advises motorists who intend to drink alcohol to arrange a sober designated driver or use alternative transport, including e-hailing services.
Where Did the 164 Drunk Driving Arrests Take Place?
The arrests were made across various JMPD regions and specialised units in Johannesburg. Specific suburbs and roadblock locations were not disclosed.
Staying Safe on Gauteng Roads This Festive Season
As the festive season approaches, JMPD is calling on motorists to make road safety part of their holiday and celebration plans.
Whether travelling to a year-end function, visiting relatives or attending an evening event, residents should consider their return journey before consuming alcohol.
Arranging a sober driver, making use of alternative transport and refusing to drive after drinking are practical decisions that can help protect everyone on the road.
The 164 arrests recorded in just seven days are a reminder that drunk driving remains an active enforcement concern in Johannesburg.
With 24-hour operations continuing, JMPD is urging motorists to take its warning seriously.
The department’s central message ahead of the festive season remains clear: if you drink, do not drive.
