The City of Cape Town’s Safety and Security Directorate has confirmed that its enforcement agencies arrested 430 suspects over the past week, with nearly a quarter of those arrests linked to driving under the influence of alcohol.
A total of 99 motorists were arrested for drunk driving, as authorities intensified efforts to improve road safety during the busy month-end period.
Traffic officers arrested 60 drivers for driving under the influence, while Metro Police officers made an additional 39 arrests for the same offence.
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, expressed concern over the persistent problem of intoxicated drivers on the city’s roads.
“Month-end inebriation that spills onto our roads remains one of our biggest concerns. As expected, drunk driving arrests increased,” Smith said.
He warned that getting behind the wheel while intoxicated could have devastating consequences, including fatal crashes, criminal convictions and long-term emotional trauma for those involved and their families.
Smith urged motorists to make alternative travel arrangements when consuming alcohol, such as using a designated driver, staying overnight or making use of public transport and ride-hailing services.
“It is in your interest to have a designated driver, sleep over or make use of the many other options which don’t require you to get behind the wheel.”
Beyond drunk driving offences, Traffic Services arrested three motorists for reckless and negligent driving and four others on various charges. Officers also impounded 215 public transport vehicles and executed 803 warrants of arrest.
Meanwhile, Metro Police recovered six vehicles during the week, including a motorcycle reported stolen in Manenberg. The rider was arrested in Mfuleni after officers discovered the vehicle’s ignition had been tampered with.
The City’s Law Enforcement Department made 243 arrests and issued 16,121 fines for various transgressions during the reporting period.
