More than 1200 arrests were made by the City’s enforcement agencies in the month of April. According to the City, in the last week of the month, officers made 327 arrests and issued 78 011 fines for various transgressions. Of those arrested, just over 20% were for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith, said Metro Police officers led the charge, making 186 arrests and issuing 4 230 fines. Among those arrested were for possession of drugs, driving under the influence of alcohol and reckless and negligent driving.
Law Enforcement made more than 90 arrests, issuing more than 3 200 notices while Cape Town Traffic Service officers arrested 46 motorists – 39 for driving under the influence of alcohol and seven for reckless and negligent driving.
JP Smith said the stats represent another very busy week for enforcement services and it’s likely that the combination of public holidays, long weekend and month end all contributed too, as people let their hair down.
“Our drunk driving statistics for one are not slowing down – an indication that far too many motorists continue to engage in risky behaviour by getting behind the wheel when they’re clearly in no position to do so,” he said.
He reminded the public that the use of breathalyzers was reinstated just over a month ago, after being suspended due to Covid-19.
“This means that we are now able to increase the number of drivers screened, and expedite sobriety tests. There is no excuse for driving drunk – if you can’t find a volunteer to be the designated driver, or don’t want to pay for a lift home, then best to stay over at your party venue, or stay sober,” he said.
Also read:
Picture: CapeTown ETC