WHEN the President announced that the country would move to alert level 2 of the lockdown to allow for more reopening of the economy, many South Africans saw this as a positive sign, that the country is making progress in its efforts to contain the Coronavirus.
Tragically, the positive progress that the country has been making towards containing the spread of COVID-19 is being dampened by reports of alcohol abuse, recklessness and horrific vehicle accidents and fatalities on roads.
The Government Communications and Information Systems issued a press statement, saying the recent spate of fatal accidents following the reopening of liquor sales is a cause for concern.
“As verified by the police, 740 suspects, including two police officers were arrested for drinking and driving. A 27-year-old Constable was arrested in Sedibeng on Saturday night after driving into an accident, injuring a bystander. He was charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol as well as reckless and negligent driving.
“A Sergeant was arrested in Johannesburg last Thursday night after his car collided with a Metro police vehicle. The 37-year-old was arrested on the spot and charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol.”
While many South Africans are responsible in their use of alcohol, government and society cannot sit idle while lives are being destroyed as a result of alcohol abuse and binge drinking.
“We have noticed that some people do not abide by alert level 2 regulations which place restrictions on gathering and we urge law enforcement authorities to play their role in bringing the culprits to book.
“In the midst of a pandemic, it cannot be acceptable that health-care workers in hospitals have to deal with high numbers of cases at the trauma units as a result of alcohol.”
Alcohol abuse at the heart of crimes
Government calls on all South Africans to promote responsible alcohol use and road safety in the country. Government further appeals to the liquor industry to strengthen current efforts with government that aim to curb the scourge of alcohol abuse.
Alcohol abuse is also often at the heart of contact crimes which include murder, attempted murder, sexual offences, assault resulting in grievous bodily harm, common assault, and robbery. It also is estimated that around 70 per cent of domestic violence is associated with alcohol.
The call from the Police Minister Bheki Cele for police to be tough on alcohol consumption and driving is welcomed.
