Cops not happy Jele clocks 223km/h
Orlando Pirates soccer star Happy Jele found himself on the wrong side of the law yesterday when he was arrested for speeding and reckless driving.
Gauteng MEC for community safety Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane said that the provincial traffic police high-speed unit arrested Jele early yesterday morning while he was travelling in his BMW 135i on the M1 near Sandton at an average speed of 223km/h.
In a statement, Nkosi-Malobane said Jele claimed he was on his way to attend to his sick child when the officers managed to stop him.
But it was determined that the information was untruthful and just an excuse, and Jele was arrested and taken to Sandton police station where he was formally charged for reckless driving and exceeding the prescribed limit of 120km/h.
Nkosi-Malobane condemned the incident. “I am disappointed at Happy Jele’s driving behaviour and conduct. Professional players are supposed to be role models and safety ambassadors,” said the MEC.
“The law enforcement agencies will not tolerate lawless behaviour on Gauteng roads, especially with the high rate of fatalities reported in the province.”
Jele is one of the longest-serving players at Orlando Pirates, having captained the team. He also played for the national soccer team, Bafana Bafana.
Nkosi-Malobane appealed to motorists to drive with caution and abide by the rules of the road at all times.