A total of 33 drivers were arrested over the weekend for driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol. The arrests included both men and women, with the youngest offender aged 31 and the oldest a 73-year-old male.
The arrests form part of the Namibian Police Traffic Division’s two-day operation in Windhoek over the past weekend,
Among the cases recorded during the operation, one driver tested a breath alcohol concentration of 1.81 mg/L, far exceeding the legal limit. This alarming figure underscores the ongoing problem of alcohol-related road incidents and highlights the dangers posed to all road users.
Namibian law states that a person can only drive if their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is under 0.05%. This means that anyone with a BAC of between 0.05% and 0.08% will be charged for driving under the influence of alcohol, but they won’t be penalised if they are below the legal limit.
Authorities have stressed that drinking and driving continues to be a leading cause of traffic accidents in Namibia, claiming innocent lives and devastating families each year. Law enforcement officials have made it clear that no one is exempt, and age, gender, or social status will not shield anyone from the law.
“The public is strongly cautioned: do not drink and drive under any circumstances. It is not only a personal risk but endangers passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists,” said the traffic officials.
Namibia’s roads can only be safe if everyone takes responsibility for their actions. Authorities encourage motorists to plan, use designated drivers, or opt for alternative transport after consuming alcohol.
Traffic officials reaffirmed their commitment to proactive operations aimed at reducing road fatalities and urged the public to cooperate.
“Keeping our roads safe is a shared responsibility,” said the traffic officials.