A senior official of the Department of Social Development was caught driving at 228kph on the N1 highway near Kliprivier, Johannesburg metro police said on Sunday.
The male official, in his 50s, was arrested on Saturday morning, said Chief Superintendent Wayne Minnaar. The official was the fastest-travelling motorist in Johannesburg to be caught by police to date.
”We cannot disclose his name because he has not appeared in court yet,” Minnaar said.
Minnaar said the official was granted bail of R1 500 but will appear in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court next week. Police will apply to have the vehicle — a Mercedes-Benz SLK55 — impounded.
”When someone is caught doing anything more that 181kph, the court decides his sentencing but we are able to apply to have his car confiscated,” Minnaar added.
In a previous case, a fine of R24 000 was imposed on a driver caught doing more that 180kph in Johannesburg. ”Imprisonment is also an option, but the court will decide on sentencing based on the merits of the case.”
Two more people were also arrested for driving at speeds exceeding 180kph. ”One driver, in a BMW, was trapped at 191kph and another, in a Mazda 323, for 181kph.”
Minnaar said applications to have the BMW confiscated will be lodged with the asset forfeiture unit. — Sapa