Traffic officials attached to the City of Cape Town have apprehended 37 drunk drivers over the past week. This is an increase from 29 the previous, and 24 the week prior.
Mayoral Committee member for Safety and Security, JP Smith says the statistics are worrying:
“The numbers are of concern, particularly as we are fast heading towards the Easter long weekend – historically one of the most dangerous periods on our roads. It also coincides with month-end, which generally sees an increase in drunk driving arrests,” said Smith.
He added that a joint approach is required to help ensure drivers and their loved ones do not drive under the influence of alcohol:
“We cannot do it alone. Drivers, and their loved ones, have to play their part by not getting behind the wheel inebriated. The impact of alcohol is well-documented, and yet we continue to see a flagrant disregard for the law, and the danger it poses to others,” said Smith.
ARRESTS BY TRAFFIC SERVICE OFFICIALS OVER THE PAST WEEK
- 56 arrests in total
- 51 973 recorded offences
- 156 public transport vehicles impounded
- 2 114 warrants of arrest issued
ARRESTS BY LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS
- 214 arrests in total
- 3 690 notices for various transgressions
FIGURES FROM THE PUBLIC EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION CENTRE
- 1 969 incidents
- 132 assault cases recorded
- 55 domestic violence calls (a rise from 36 last weekend)
- 43 motor vehicle accidents
READ MORE: Western Cape records over 100 drunk driving arrests