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AWARE.ORG and the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department have entered into a strategic partnership that will see the two entities work together to increase the number of drunk driving operations including an increased number of roadblocks and strengthening the gathering of evidence needed for effective prosecutions. The aim is to deter drunk driving and improve road safety.

Carmen Mohapi, Managing Director of AWARE.ORG, says: "Not only is drunk driving illegal, but alcohol also slows down your reflexes and clouds your judgement, making driving dangerous and increasing the likelihood of accidents.  With possible deadly effects on both the driver and other road users.

“AWARE’s mandate is to reduce the harmful use of alcohol and promote responsible drinking. Global case studies have shown that increased law enforcement is an effective mechanism to reduce the prevalence of drinking and driving. Working with partners like JMPD helps us carry out this significant element of our strategy.”

To make prosecution more effective, JMPD officers will use both the hand breathalyser screening device and Evidential Breath Alcotest (EBAT) machines to get an immediate print out of the driver’s alcohol level, eliminating the need for a blood sample.  In addition, the Alcohol Evidence Centres (AECs) are supported with data capturing facilities to ensure data is gathered and preserved correctly so it may be used as evidence in court.

"We see this partnership as an opportunity to combat road injuries and fatalities; this has been made all the more effective with the increasing use of EBAT Machines in Mobile AECs."

Director Angie Mokasi, the Acting Chief of the JMPD, commended AWARE.ORG for working with the department.

"I am excited about this partnership because it demonstrates that AWARE.ORG cares about road users including those who consume alcohol. This initiative illustrates the organisation's commitment to promoting a no tolerance approach to drunk driving," adds Acting Chief Mokasi

Issued by AWARE.org