Speeding KZN motorist tracked down using AI

A Durban motorist who fled traffic officers after being caught speeding at 204km/h has been tracked down and arrested using artificial intelligence-powered surveillance technology. The man was arrested on the South Coast and appeared in the Scottburgh Magistrate’s Court on charges of speeding, reckless and negligent driving, and fleeing from law enforcement officers. He was granted R3 000 bail and is expected to return to court on February 25.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma said the driver sped off after realising he was likely to be detained, leaving behind his identity document with the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) team. Authorities then turned to advanced technology to locate him. “Through artificial intelligence and cutting-edge systems, the RTI traced his movements to a golf estate on the South Coast,” said Duma.

High-resolution imaging and real-time data analysis showed the suspect removing the registration number plates from his vehicle in an apparent attempt to evade detection. Investigators also identified another individual moving the vehicle from the estate. Duma said AI-enabled CCTV cameras and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors played a key role in tracking the suspect. Using AI-driven surveillance, the RTI team moved in and arrested the motorist.