This morning, just before 07:00, our traffic officers apprehended a taxi driver who fled after being pulled over for driving along the shoulder of the road on the N2 incoming, near Langa.
We have since learnt that he has an outstanding warrant of just under R3 000.
The driver’s actions put his passengers and other road users at risk, but this was aggravated by the fact that he resisted arrest after Traffic officers stopped his vehicle, placing himself and the officers in danger.
Officers were therefore forced to subdue him, in accordance with the provisions of the Criminal Procedure Act, which stipulates that an arresting officer may use sufficient force as is necessary to arrest an offender. The chokehold in this case prevented any injury, which could happen if the accused is not restrained or resorts to violence if they decide to fight with officers while resisting arrest.
Unfortunately, due to misinformation spread on social media, claims soon started circulating that the driver had died, when he was in fact in custody and being processed at the Athlone police station.
This misinformation has now also resulted in unnecessary tensions in the CBD, seemingly involving some within the minibus industry, with an illegal gathering, the closure of roads and holding two of our Law Enforcement officers hostage. Their colleagues have since freed them.
These actions are illegal and will inevitably lead to an escalation of conflict and I call on those involved to cease and desist and allow the law to take its course.
Law enforcement conducted by traffic officers on the N2 near Langa https://t.co/yBD1L50iwt#ArriveAlive #LawEnforcement #TrafficOfficers #RoadSafety pic.twitter.com/UG1NgP69ah
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) March 4, 2025
