There is a shortage of drunk driving test kits across the country.
- South Africa has a shortage of drunk driving test kits.
- Police said they are looking for kits, which could possibly only be delivered by the end of November.
- SAPS said they became aware of the global shortage a few weeks ago.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) said they are working around the clock to ensure it has the necessary tools and resources to prevent, combat and investigate drunk driving cases.
According to police spokeswoman Colonel Athlenda Mathe, the SAPS was previously informed that there was a global shortage of vials, which is a component of the test kit.
“SAPS met with the vendor responsible for delivering the blood alcohol kits and we can confirm that the vials were received by the vendor, and we should expect delivery at the end of November, just in time for the festive period,” Mathe added.
Mathe said the vials have been tested and delivery is expected within the next week.
“Once the vials have been received, national distribution to the provinces will begin. We want to reassure road users that SAPS will be in stock before the busy festive season,” Mathe added.
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According to police, in the absence of these kits, blood is drawn from suspects to test for blood alcohol levels, the sample is then taken to the Department of Health for further processing, then a report is released to be used before a Court of Justice.
Meanwhile, Durban Senior Superintendent Geraldine Stevens of the Metropolitan Police said they are awaiting new bottles of blood for testing.
“We are looking for a service provider for the new blood bottles that are required to store blood drawn from a drunk driver,” Stevens added.
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