Pietermaritzburg: The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport has commenced the recruitment of traffic officers as part of its efforts to build a safer and more prosperous province for all citizens and future generations. Transport MEC Siboniso Duma unveiled the strategic recruitment drive aimed at strengthening the province's Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), described as a highly dedicated and efficient law enforcement unit.
According to South African Government News Agency, the initiative forms part of the province's Zero Tolerance - No Nonsense Alufakwa campaign, which aims to foster a culture of responsible behaviour on the road by targeting motorists who drink and drive. Duma noted that reckless and negligent driving remain a serious concern, with more than 160 motorists arrested in August alone for driving under the influence. The arrests include a senior public prosecutor, two police officers, and a correctional services official, among others.
Duma highlighted the gravity of the situation, particularly with civil servants being involved in such offenses. 'It is very disappointing that civil servants tasked with the responsibility to enforce the law and uphold it were caught breaking it,' he said. The case involving the senior prosecutor has been formally enrolled in court, with proceedings postponed to October 2025, pending the outcome of forensic blood test results.
The MEC emphasized the seriousness with which the department views the arrest of a senior public prosecutor, stating, 'The arrest of a senior public prosecutor -- someone entrusted with the responsibility of upholding the law -- strikes at the very heart of the justice system.' He assured that the case would be handled with transparency and integrity.
Duma also mentioned that his department, in collaboration with the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster, is actively monitoring this case and other cases involving law enforcement officers. 'These developments have been formally raised for discussion within the Cluster to strengthen oversight and accountability mechanisms across the criminal justice value chain,' Duma said.
The recruitment drive aims to fill 278 positions, including one Control Provincial Inspector, 10 Senior Provincial Inspectors, 67 Provincial Inspectors, and 200 Trainee Provincial Inspectors. Applicants can hand-deliver their applications or use the KZN e-Recruitment system online.
Duma commended RTI officers and stakeholders for their continued vigilance and dedication despite limited resources, reaffirming that the safety of all road users remains a top priority.