Western Cape Says Nothing Wrong With Drager Breathalyzers
South Africa | Dean | March 16, 2010 at 22:13
Yesterday we reported that there were errors with the Drager breathalyzer, and that all cases have been withdrawn — if they have not yet started. This seems to have been the case in Gauteng only, as the Western Cape has said that these machines are still being used in the Mother City.
“Neither the Western Cape provincial government nor the director of public prosecutions has received any instruction from the National Prosecution Authority to stop using the Dräger breathalyser machines to test drunk driving,” said Robert Carlisle, transport department head.
The facts regarding the tests being invalid were distorted.
“The fight against drunken killers on our roads is one of the biggest challenges facing South Africa.”
Drivers have still, and will still, be tested with the system.
“It is vital to understand that there are four stand-alone evidential methods: the police officers’ testimony, video testimony of the accused at Shadow [Safely Home Anti Drunk-driving Operations War room] which is admissible in court, the Dräger result, and blood samples when drawn.
“Any of these can be used to secure a prosecution of driving under the influence of alcohol or drunk driving.”
Robert says that the Western Cape law enforcement will use at least three of these methods in every single case.
“There is no escape. I want to send out this message loud and clear: anyone who drinks and drives tonight and is stopped by the law enforcement agencies will be taken to Shadow to be tested. If they are over the legal alcohol limit, they will be arrested and taken to the cells like any other night.”
The NPA has said that drunk drivers in Gauteng might be off the hook, as their breathalyzer device is currently suspended.
“The Dräger machine has been suspended in Gauteng for the past two weeks due to a certification problem,” spokesman Mthunzi Mhaga said.
“We have also withdrawn all drunken driving cases which had not yet started that relied solely on the machine’s readings.”
[via:wheels24]
Tags: drager, South Africa -->
Tweet This
Share on Facebook
Digg This
Save to delicious
Stumble it
You actually make it seem really easy together with your presentation but I find this topic to be really one thing which I believe I would by no means understand. It sort of feels too complex and extremely huge for me. I’m taking a look forward on your next publish, I will try to get the cling of it!
Wonderful website. Lots of helpful information here. I’m sending it to a few buddies ans also sharing in delicious. And certainly, thanks for your effort!