The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has issued a stern warning to the public, particularly social media influencers, following a viral video of influencer and radio presenter Penny Ntuli dancing on the side of the N3 Freeway. The episode, which has sparked a heated discussion online, has been described by the RTMC as a concerning display of irresponsible behaviour on South Africa’s national roads.
In a notable post on their social media platform X, the RTMC expressed their astonishment, emphasising the hazards of such actions. “The RTMC is astonished by this behaviour on our national roads. Pedestrians under the National Road Traffic Act are prohibited on the freeways and it’s illegal. Content creators should not risk their lives for likes,” the statement asserted, highlighting the legal implications of such reckless behaviour.
In an attempt to clarify her actions, Ntuli took to TikTok to present her side of the story. “We were dancing out of fun. What I did wasn’t meant to hurt anyone,” she explained, defending her impromptu performance. She further stated that if the incident involved a different individual, it would not have garnered such attention and criticism. Ntuli noted that assumptions about her state of mind during the event were unfounded, stating firmly, “I don’t drink alcohol. Everything I do, I do with both my eyes and a sober mind.”
Despite her efforts to provide context, many social media users continued to express concern, arguing the potential dangers associated with her behaviour. Realising the impact of her viral moment, Ntuli later urged her fans—particularly younger followers—not to emulate her actions. “Please don’t be on the freeway doing what I did because it’s not safe. I saw comments from people who were genuinely concerned about safety, and I understand where they were coming from,” she admitted, acknowledging the risks involved in her actions.
Traffic officials echoed her sentiments, urging caution among public figures when creating content on or near roads. They called for influencers to be more vigilant and aware of the dangers and responsibilities that come with their platform. The N3 freeway, notorious for its accidents, serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of taking frivolity to reckless extremes.
