Namibia: A Weekend of Drunken Drivers

Forty drivers were arrested for driving under the influence over Easter weekend.

This included 10 female drivers in the Khomas region. Authorities urged drivers to plan ahead and use designated drivers. They emphasized making responsible choices behind the wheel.

The highest blood alcohol concentration recorded was 1.85. This is more than three times the legal limit. Four people were also arrested for obstructing police officers during this operation.

Officers issued 182 traffic tickets for various violations. This was part of a broader effort to improve road safety during the holiday.

According to Namibian Police spokesperson Kauna Shikwambi, a serious incident occurred last Thursday. A 35-year-old male driver lost control of his Toyota minibus on B1 road around 00h59. He was traveling from Okahandja to Otjiwarongo with 21 passengers.

The vehicle overturned while overtaking a truck about 50km from Okahandja. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported. Some passengers with minor injuries were taken to Okahandja State Hospital.

On Sunday at about 19h30, another incident happened in Nanyanti village, Kapani area. A 36-year-old male driver of a maroon Toyota Noah hit two pedestrians while driving from Katima Mulilo to Malengalenga.

One pedestrian, Munika Nosiku, died at the scene. The other pedestrian, Sitali Pelekelo, suffered injuries and is Zambian. Their next of kin have been informed, and the deceased's body was taken to Katima Mulilo State mortuary. Police investigations are ongoing.