The final weekend of January, often referred to as “Janu-worry,” proved eventful for Cape Town’s Safety and Security Directorate, with an increase in incidents across multiple categories.
The City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) recorded 1,842 incidents during the week, marking a significant rise compared to the previous week’s 1,656.
Categories that saw increases included public drinking complaints (38, up from 22), fires (114, up from 94), assault cases (119, up from 69), domestic violence cases (68, up from 51), and motor vehicle and pedestrian accidents (63, up from 53).
“The increases in many categories are those where alcohol plays a role and where the physical safety of residents is compromised. Payday weekends are always a concern and our enforcement staff brace for the inevitable consequences of reckless revelry,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith.
City enforcement agencies were kept busy, with traffic officers making 46 arrests, including 36 for driving under the influence. They also carried out 1,307 warrants, impounded 261 public transport vehicles, and recorded 59,323 transgressions.
Smith says a drag racing operation along Strandfontein Road on 25 January resulted in 106 transgressions, five vehicle suspensions, and seven arrests.
“The high speeds mixed with alcohol, drugs and reckless behaviour is of concern. Operations and speed enforcement will continue and I encourage the racing enthusiasts to not use our public roads.”
Meanwhile, Metro Police officers arrested 68 individuals for various offences, including 37 for drug-related crimes, and confiscated large quantities of drugs such as Tik, heroin, and Mandrax. They also issued 4,350 fines for traffic and by-law infringements. Law enforcement officers also made 181 arrests.
“With January behind us, I want to encourage our residents to set the tone for the year by taking responsibility for their actions and it includes responsible alcohol use. Our officers will continue to ensure the safety of our communities and arrest those who flout the law.”
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