A pastor travelling to St Lucia Beach for a church cleansing and baptism ceremony has been arrested after allegedly being caught driving under the influence of alcohol during a Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) operation in northern KwaZulu-Natal.
The incident occurred on the R618 in St Lucia, where RTI officers stopped the pastor’s vehicle during routine traffic enforcement.
According to information released on social media, the pastor was travelling with members of his congregation, who were following behind his vehicle on their way to the religious gathering.
RTI Officers Detect Smell of Alcohol
Officials reportedly became suspicious after detecting a strong smell of alcohol coming from the vehicle during the stop.
A breathalyser test was subsequently conducted, with the pastor allegedly recording a 0.360% Blood Alcohol Content (BAC), according to the information shared by RTI.
The pastor was immediately arrested on a charge of allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol and transported to police cells.
Biblical Response During Arrest
The incident has attracted widespread attention online after RTI shared what it claimed was the pastor’s response following his arrest.
According to the post, the pastor quoted 1 John 1:9, saying:
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
The RTI post humorously added that officers responded, “Amen to that,” before escorting him to the holding cells.
Social Media Reacts
The arrest has sparked widespread discussion across social media platforms, with many users expressing disbelief that the incident occurred while the pastor was reportedly travelling to conduct a baptism service.
Others praised RTI officers for enforcing the law equally, regardless of a person’s profession or standing within the community.
Drunk Driving Remains a Serious Offence
Authorities continue to warn motorists that driving under the influence of alcohol remains one of the leading causes of serious crashes on South African roads.
Law enforcement agencies have intensified operations across KwaZulu-Natal, particularly during weekends and holiday periods, with motorists urged to avoid drinking before getting behind the wheel and to arrange alternative transport if they have consumed alcohol.
